ACOG Releases Recommendation

Earlier this year, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued new recommendations urging clinicians to better manage pain during in-office gynecologic procedures including IUD insertions, cervical biopsies, and colposcopy. These updates mark a shift toward more empathetic, patient-centered care (acog.org).

For patients undergoing colposcopy, the significance of pain management and trauma-informed care cannot be overstated. The procedure itself is often stressful, and biopsies performed during colposcopy can lead to additional discomfort. Addressing these concerns is essential for patient-centered care.

By implementing ACOG’s pain management recommendations alongside the use of trauma-informed technology providers are able to make a meaningful difference. This combination not only addresses physical discomfort but also contributes to a more positive clinical experience. When patients feel that their pain is acknowledged and managed during an exam, the result is a substantial improvement in both clinical outcomes and overall patient satisfaction.

Procedural Changes

1. Normalize Pain Awareness and Counseling
   Pain and anxiety must be proactively discussed. ACOG encourages trauma-informed counseling and shared decision-making so patients feel seen and heard.
2. Procedure-Specific Pain Relief
   Local anesthetic agents, such as topical lidocaine or paracervical block, may reduce pain during biopsy. While evidence varies, offering options and tailoring them to the individual is essential.
3. Balance Comfort and Efficiency
   ACOG notes that while anesthesia may add time, the benefits of improved comfort and trust often outweigh delays. The goal is to center patient dignity alongside procedural effectiveness.

Lutech’s Technology Prioritizes Patients

Colposcopy is a critical tool in cervical examinations and cancer prevention, but historically patient comfort has not always been prioritized. ACOG’s recommendations validate what patients have long expressed that pain matters and discussing relief options upfront fosters trust.

By integrating pain-management options such as topical anesthetics with less-invasive technology like the Lutech colposcope, providers can create a more supportive, trauma-informed exam environment.

The Lutech LT-300HD Digital Colposcope is designed with both providers and patients in mind:

• Less Invasive, More Comfortable: Upright, ergonomic design not only reduces the need for an invasive position, but minimizes the providers physical discomfort.
• Anti-Glare and Adjustable Lighting: Helps the provider clearly visualize without prolonged or repeated manipulations.
• Faster, More Efficient Exams: Autofocus and hands-free, one-click image capture shortens the time a patient spends on the exam table.
• Shared Viewing Options: On-screen images in real time foster transparency and education. Images captured during the exam are easily uploaded to patient records for continued collaboration and tracking disease progression.

A Better Patient Experience

When providers take the time to provide the recommended pain-management plan (per ACOG) and use tools like Lutech digital colposcope, patients experience:

• Reduced Anxiety: Knowing options are available and technology supports comfort helps patients feel in control.
• Greater Trust: Patients who feel their provider values their comfort are more likely to desire follow-up care.
• Improved Outcomes: A calmer, more cooperative patient allows providers to perform the procedure more smoothly and thoroughly in a timely fashion.

ACOG’s guidance is a call to action. It is no longer acceptable to dismiss pain during gynecologic procedures. With Lutech’s innovative technology, providers can go beyond compliance to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care that blends pain relief with a more respectful and caring exam experience.

Together, these changes move us toward a new standard in colposcopy where clinical excellence and patient dignity go hand in hand.

Ready to learn more?

See how the LT-300HD can enhance cervical exams at your practice. Contact us today for a demo or call to speak with a member of our team.