An abnormal pap smear result does not signify a major problem all on its own. An abnormal pap smear simply means that more tests are needed in order to make sure that pre-cancerous or cancerous changes to the cervix have not occurred. Let’s take a look at the various causes of abnormal pap smear results.
Abnormal Pap Smear Result Cause #1
An abnormal pap smear could be the result of silly things you might do without thinking. If you douche, have sex, or wear a tampon within 48 hours of a pap smear, this could cause an abnormal pap smear.
Abnormal Pap Smear Results Cause #2
An abnormal pap smear could be caused by a mild inflammatory or yeast infection. If you have inflammation or a yeast infection, your doctor may wish to perform another pap six months to a year later just to make sure there are no changes to your cervical cells.
Abnormal Pap Smear Results Cause #3
Abnormal pap smears can be caused by the HPV virus. This is where the troubles could lie. According to OneLess.com, HPV strains 16 and 18 are present in over 70% of cervical cancer cases. On the other hand, there are several other strains of HPV that do not cause cervical cancer and that clear up on their own. Only a doctor can determine what type of HPV strain you have and if it is causing a problem.
Now that we understand some causes of abnormal pap results, let’s move on to what to expect. After abnormal test results come back, a gynecologist will perform a colposcopy. A colposcopy is where a gynecologist takes a powerful light and magnifying contraption and looks at your cervix up close to find if there are any changes in your cervical cells. At his/her discretion, they will take samples of any areas of concern for further testing.
If the test results from the colposcopy come back to show changes in cervical cells that warrant further procedures, a doctor will discuss your options with you. Cryotherapy, LEEP, LEETZ, and Cold Knife Conizations (CKC) are all treatment options that a doctor could discuss with you.
An abnormal pap smear does not mean you have HPV or cervical cancer. An abnormal pap smear just means that a doctor needs to perform further procedures to rule out HPV, pre-cancerous changes, or cervical cancer. If you are concerned with your abnormal pap smear results, call your doctor to discuss.
Abnormal pap smear results are scary – trust me, I’ve been there. I’ve also been through some of the other procedures necessary when pre-cancerous changes are detected. With early treatment, you can avoid cervical cancer. Next time you get an abnormal pap smear result, look at the bright side: this simple test result could very well save your life.
Resources:
Women’s Health About.com
