Colposcopy versus Colonoscopy

Haha! Do you know the difference? I hear a lot of people calling one the other. 

Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure done when the cervix, vagina, and vulva need to be examined by a health care provider for signs of disease. An instrument called a colposcope is used. This procedure is typically done when the result of a pap smear is abnormal or the cervix looks abnormal during a pap smear procedure. So basically, colposcopies are done on women.

On the other hand, a Colonoscopy is a procedure carried out by your provider to look at the inner lining of your large intestine (rectum and colon). This procedure is used to find polyps, tumors, ulcers, or check for cancer and precancerous growths. Tissue samples can be collected and abnormal growths removed during the procedure. If your fecal occult blood/stool test is positive, a colonoscopy might be recommended to determine what the problem is. The instrument used is called a colonoscope. Both men and women are recommended to get a colonoscopy once they turn 50 assuming they are asymptomatic and not at risk for cancer. An earlier screening is recommended if otherwise.

Hopefully, this clarifies the confusion and you can educate someone too.