Author
Bowtie Team
Updated on
2026-09-05
A colposcopy is used to examine the cervix and the interior of the vagina, offering clinical consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for women with abnormal cervical cells. The procedure is generally quick and straightforward. The Bowtie team provides a comprehensive overview of the colposcopy procedure, pre- and post-procedure precautions, costs, and insurance claims information.
What Is a Colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a straightforward medical examination where a doctor uses a specialised lighted microscope (a colposcope) to directly inspect the cervix, vagina, and the opening of the vagina (vulva). The microscope magnifies images of the cervical and vaginal surface by 10 to 40 times. During the examination, the doctor applies a medical solution to highlight abnormal tissues. If any abnormalities or suspicious areas are detected, the doctor will take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for pathological analysis.
A colposcopy can be used to diagnose:
-
Genital warts
-
Cervicitis
-
Epithelial cell lesions of the vulva, cervix, or vagina
-
Cancer
When Is a Colposcopy Needed?
A colposcopy is generally recommended when cervical screening tests identify abnormal cellular changes or when unexplained gynaecological symptoms arise.
You are advised to undergo a colposcopy under the following circumstances:
-
Results from a cervical screening test (Pap smear) or vaginal vault smear show epithelial cell lesions or the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV).
-
Experiencing recurrent episodes of vaginal bleeding following sexual intercourse (post-coital bleeding).
The Colposcopy Procedure
A colposcopy is very straightforward and generally takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to complete. The procedure typically follows these steps:
-
The patient lies on an examination couch with a towel covering the lower body, with legs supported by specialised stirrups or footrests.
-
The doctor gently inserts a speculum into the vagina to widen it and clearly view the cervix.
-
The doctor inspects the cervix and vagina with a colposcope and applies an acetic acid solution to the area being examined to highlight abnormal cells.
-
If necessary, the doctor uses specialised gynaecological biopsy forceps to remove a small sample of tissue from the cervix or vagina for laboratory analysis.
What Precautions Should Be Taken for a Colposcopy?
Understanding the necessary preparations and aftercare guidelines ensures that the colposcopy procedure is conducted smoothly and safely.
Precautions Before a Colposcopy
-
Avoid examination during menstruation: It is not advisable to undergo the examination while menstruating.
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Refrain from sexual intercourse: Do not engage in sexual intercourse for 24 hours (1 day) before the examination.
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Sign a consent form: A procedural/surgical consent form must be completed prior to the procedure.
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No fasting required: Fasting is not required before the examination.
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Empty your bladder: Please empty your bladder completely just before the examination.
Precautions After a Colposcopy
After the procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort resembling period pain, which typically subsides quickly. Patients who have undergone a cervical biopsy should pay close attention to the following:
-
Mild pain and light bleeding: Minor pain and spotting may occur, which usually resolve within approximately one week.
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Avoid infection risks for 1 to 2 weeks: Refrain from sexual intercourse, swimming, soaking in baths, and using tampons for 1 to 2 weeks following the procedure to minimise the risk of wound infection.
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Seek urgent medical attention for heavy bleeding: If abnormally heavy vaginal bleeding occurs after the procedure, attend the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department immediately.
How Much Does a Colposcopy Cost in Hong Kong?
Colposcopy costs in Hong Kong vary depending on whether the examination is conducted in a public hospital, a private hospital, or an outpatient private clinic. In public hospitals, fees differ markedly between Eligible Persons and Non-eligible Persons, while private healthcare fees depend on the specific institution and whether a biopsy is performed.
Public Hospital Colposcopy Fees
Private Medical Services (in Hospital Authority hospitals):
-
Colposcopy (histopathological examination charged separately): HK$2,740 – HK$14,250
Eligible Persons (EP):
-
Day procedure and care in day medical facilities: HK$195 per attendance
Non-eligible Persons (NEP):
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Day procedure and care in day medical facilities: HK$5,100 per attendance
* Only patients falling into the following categories are eligible to pay the rates applicable to “Eligible Persons”:
-
Holders of a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) issued under the Registration of Persons Ordinance (Cap. 177), except those who obtained their HKID by virtue of a previous permission to land or remain in Hong Kong and such permission has expired or ceased to be valid;
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Children who are Hong Kong residents and under 11 years of age; or
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Other persons approved by the Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority.
Patients outside these categories are defined as “Non-eligible Persons”.
Private Hospital Colposcopy Fees
|
Private Hospital |
Charges |
|---|---|
|
Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital |
N/A |
|
St. Paul’s Hospital |
HK$27,658 |
|
Hong Kong Adventist Hospital – Stubbs Road |
N/A |
|
Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong |
HK$18,987 |
|
Canossa Hospital |
HK$30,491 |
|
Matilda International Hospital |
HK$33,926 |
|
St. Teresa’s Hospital (French Hospital) |
HK$19,739 |
|
Hong Kong Baptist Hospital |
HK$27,713 |
|
Evangel Hospital |
HK$16,684 |
|
Precious Blood Hospital (Caritas) |
HK$21,247 |
|
Hong Kong Adventist Hospital – Tsuen Wan |
HK$43,227 |
|
Union Hospital |
HK$31,440 |
|
CUHK Medical Centre |
HK$18,300 – HK$55,600 |
Private Clinic Colposcopy Fees
|
Private Clinic |
Charges |
|---|---|
|
The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) – Cervical Disease Clinic |
HK$3,500 |
|
Advance Medical Centre – Tsim Sha Tsui |
HK$7,000 (doctor’s consultation fee excluded) |
|
Chiron Healthcare Group |
HK$3,999 (Women’s Health Screening, including vaginal examination) |
Which Insurance Plans Cover Colposcopy Costs?
Bowtie VHIS plans cover the cost of colposcopy examinations. However, benefit limits vary depending on the chosen plan. The table below lists the surgical benefit limits (Surgeon’s Fee) under Bowtie VHIS (Flexi Plan) and Bowtie Pink for reference:
|
Benefit Item |
Bowtie VHIS (Flexi Plan – Regular / Plus) |
Bowtie Pink |
|---|---|---|
|
Surgeon’s Fee<br>Colposcopy with or without biopsy (Minor surgery) |
Regular: HK$6,000*<br>Plus: HK$9,000* |
Full coverage# |
Beyond the surgeon’s fee, Bowtie VHIS also covers other procedural and surgical expenses, such as the attending doctor’s visit fees, anaesthetist’s fees, operating theatre charges, and ward and board fees!
* The stated benefit limit includes only the surgeon’s fee. VHIS also provides coverage for other procedure-related items, including specialist fees, ward rental, anaesthetist fees, operating theatre charges, and miscellaneous expenses. Please refer to the VHIS product pages for specific item benefit limits. Each benefit limit is determined according to the surgical complexity, and the VHIS Schedule of Surgical Procedures classifies procedures from minor to complex.
# Full coverage means there is no itemised benefit sublimit, applicable only to designated eligible benefit items. Reimbursement is subject to the remaining deductible (if applicable), annual benefit limits, lifetime benefit limits, Reasonable and Customary charges, pre-existing conditions, designated hospital lists in Mainland China, and terms governing medical treatments in the United States. For detailed terms and conditions, product risks, and exclusions, please refer to the relevant product website and policy documents.
FAQ
Is a colposcopy painful?
A colposcopy rarely causes pain, although the procedure may cause mild discomfort. If a tissue biopsy is performed at the same time, you may feel a brief pinch or a cramp-like sensation.
Are there risks associated with a colposcopy? Will it affect fertility?
The risks of a colposcopy are very low. Rare complications include heavy vaginal bleeding, infection, or pelvic pain. The procedure does not have any adverse impact on future fertility or pregnancy.
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