Physical after effects and clients satisfaction following colposcopy and cervical biopsy in a Nigerian population

Background: Although Nigeria has a high prevalence of cervical cancer, screening services including colposcopy and directed cervical biopsy are not widely available.

Objectives: A prospective study among 111 women who had colposcopy and cervical biopsy following an abnormal Pap smear result at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Nigeria. It explored physical after effects experienced and satisfaction of clients after the procedure.

Results: The mean age of the population was 49.5±8.7 years (range, 30 - 64 years) and majority (64.9%) had tertiary education. Overall, 69 women (62.2%) reported physical effects following the procedure. Common physical effects experienced included spotting blood per vaginam (65.2%), pain (34.8%) and vaginal discharge (17.4%). Spontaneous resolution of symptoms occurred within 48 hours in 90.9% of those who reported physical effects. Clients who experienced physical after effects were significantly older (p=0.002) and had tertiary education (p=0.019). Majority of the women (94.6%) were satisfied with the screening services and more than 97% were willing to accept a repeat procedure.

Conclusions: Although majority of the clients who had colposcopy and cervical biopsy reported they experienced physical side effects, more than 97% were willing to have a repeat procedure. This information can assist colposcopic service providers in counseling clients.