An abnormal Pap smear result can be unsettling, but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t always indicate something serious. A Pap smear is a routine test used to check for changes in the cells of the cervix, and an abnormal result simply means that some cells look different from normal. From minor infections to more serious concerns, understanding your results is key to taking the right steps for your health. Written by Dr Joanne Pottow, reproductive medicine specialist .
A Pap smear is a screening procedure for cervical cancer that was named after the man who pioneered this test in 1928, George Papanicolaou. This screening procedure may assist in finding other conditions, such as infections or inflammation but the main reason for the test is to pick up any abnormal cells which could progress to become cancer.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women under 35 years of age. If it is detected early or in its premalignancy state (before it has become cancer) it is 100% curable.
What does a pap smear test for?
The procedure entails a light swab/brush over the uterine cervix, in a specific area called the transformation zone, in order to detect abnormal or irregular cells in a Pap smear. The brush/swab is tested for examined in a laboratory under the microscope. A Pap smear can also test for certain viral infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV), which is one of the known causes of cervical cancer.
Abnormal Pap smear causes
Most sexually active women are exposed to HPV, but 80% of women’s immune systems will clear the virus within the first year or two of exposure. A small percentage of women are unable to clear the virus and persistently high levels of HPV in their system will lead to CIN, resulting in an abnormal Pap smear result.
It is important to go for a Pap smear annually. Infections and inflammation, as well as pregnancy, could yield an abnormal result but are not indicative of a CIN. In these instances, a repeat pap smear six months later is advised to ensure all is normal. Where an abnormal result is detected, a follow-up Pap smear may be recommended six months, depending on the general health status of the person and how advanced the abnormal cells are. It is possible that the abnormal cells will no longer present at this stage, having been cleared by the immune system.
“Regular screening with the use of Pap smears and HPV testing significantly reduces the chances of ever developing cervical cancer.”
If not, further testing (such as colposcopy) is required. At the time of colposcopy, a biopsy is taken and it is also possible to cut out/remove the abnormal tissue cells. Up to 95% of women having this treatment will have no further abnormal pap smear result. It is very important to repeat the Pap smear six months after any treatment to ensure that the abnormal cells have been completely removed/treated.
If you wonder if it is normal to spot after a Pap smear, the answer is yes; however, heavy bleeding after a Pap smear is not. The light bleeding or spotting may be secondary to cervicitis or vaginitis, and therefore completely unrelated to the Pap smear, but it is best to inform your healthcare provider so they can reassure you.
Heavy bleeding may occur if a biopsy has been taken at the same time as the Pap smear. If you experience bleeding after a gynaecological exam, it is best to alert the doctor who did the Pap smear for re-examination with a speculum – and to stop the bleeding.
Regular screening with the use of Pap smears and HPV testing significantly reduces the chances of ever developing cervical cancer and should be considered a routine exam for any sexually active women. Prevention is always better than cure!
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BabyYumYum FAQ’s on abnormal pap smears
What does it mean to have an abnormal Pap smear?
An abnormal Pap smear indicates that the test has detected changes in the cells of your cervix. These changes can range from mild to severe and may require further investigation.
Does an abnormal Pap smear mean I have cervical cancer?
Not necessarily. An abnormal Pap smear often indicates the presence of precancerous cells or other conditions that are not cancer. However, it does mean that further tests are needed to determine the cause of the abnormal results.
What are the common causes of an abnormal Pap smear?
The most common causes of an abnormal Pap smear include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, inflammation, yeast infections, trichomoniasis, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What happens after an abnormal Pap smear result?
If you have an abnormal Pap smear, your doctor may recommend further testing, such as a repeat Pap smear, HPV testing, or a colposcopy, to get a closer look at your cervical cells.
What is a colposcopy, and why might I need one?
A colposcopy is a procedure where your doctor uses a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope to closely examine your cervix. You may need a colposcopy if your Pap smear results show significant abnormalities or if HPV is detected.
Can an abnormal Pap smear result be a false positive?
Yes, sometimes an abnormal Pap smear result can be a false positive, meaning that the test indicates abnormal cells when there are none. This can happen due to inflammation, infection, or lab errors.
How are abnormal cervical cells treated?
Treatment for abnormal cervical cells depends on the severity of the abnormalities. Mild changes may be monitored with regular Pap smears, while more severe changes may require procedures such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).
Can an abnormal Pap smear result affect my fertility?
An abnormal Pap smear result itself does not affect fertility. However, some treatments for abnormal cervical cells, such as LEEP or cone biopsy, can potentially impact your ability to carry a pregnancy to term.
Is HPV the only cause of an abnormal Pap smear?
No, while HPV is a common cause of abnormal Pap smears, other factors like infections, inflammation, and changes in the cervix due to menopause or pregnancy can also lead to abnormal results.
How often should I get a Pap smear if I’ve had an abnormal result?
If you’ve had an abnormal Pap smear, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings, such as every 6 to 12 months, until your results return to normal.
Can lifestyle changes reduce the risk of an abnormal Pap smear?
Yes, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of an abnormal Pap smear, such as getting the HPV vaccine, using condoms during sex, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Should I be concerned if I have an abnormal Pap smear during pregnancy?
An abnormal Pap smear during pregnancy is not uncommon and is usually not a cause for concern. Your doctor will monitor the situation and may recommend additional tests after your baby is born.
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