Colposcopy is a medical procedure used to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease or abnormal tissue growth. During the procedure, a trained specialist called a colposcopist uses a special instrument called a colposcope, which is a lighted microscope that magnifies the tissue lining the cervix and vagina. If the doctor finds any abnormalities, they may take a small sample of tissue for further study, which is called a biopsy. Colposcopy is often recommended if a Pap test or pelvic exam revealed abnormalities. It can be used to diagnose genital warts, inflammation of the cervix, and precancerous changes in the tissue of the cervix, vagina, or vulva. The procedure is usually carried out in an outpatient hospital clinic by a specialist called a colposcopist, who can be a doctor or a specially trained nurse. A colposcopy is a quick and safe procedure that usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. If you have a biopsy, you might have some discomfort, but a colposcopy is nearly pain-free.