How common are abnormal Pap smears?

Most of the abnormal cells found during a Pap test are the result of a cervical or vaginal infection and are not cancerous. Abnormal Pap tests are very common. In fact, of the 3 million women with abnormal Pap tests each year, less than 1% (13,240 cases) will be diagnosed with cervical cancer.

What is the most common reason for abnormal Pap smears?

Most abnormal Pap tests are caused by HPV infections. Other types of infection—such as those caused by bacteria, yeast, or protozoa (Trichomonas)—sometimes lead to minor changes on a Pap test called atypical squamous cells.

Should I worry about abnormal Pap smear?

Most abnormal Pap smear results are nothing to worry about Most women will have at least one abnormal Pap smear result in their lifetime, with an overall average of 5% of all Pap tests coming back as “abnormal.” In most cases, the abnormal result is nothing to worry about, but it’s important to follow up to make sure.

What is the next step after an abnormal Pap smear?

Your next step is usually a minor procedure called a colposcopy. This procedure is a visual examination of the cervix using a low-powered microscope used to find and then biopsy abnormal areas in your cervix that may lead to cervical cancer.

What are the next steps after an abnormal Pap smear?

If your Pap results are unclear or inconclusive, the next step will likely be a colposcopy . A colposcopy is a procedure in which your doctor uses a microscope to inspect your cervix. Your doctor will use a special solution during the colposcopy to help differentiate normal areas from abnormal ones.

Does abnormal Pap smear always indicate cancer?

An abnormal Pap smear means some percentage of your cervix cells appear abnormal in shape or size. In most cases, an abnormal Pap smear does not indicate cancer and is in fact caused by HPV. If you have an abnormal Pap result, your doctor may order further testing like a biopsy.

What does an abnormal Pap smear mean exactly?

An abnormal pap smear means that there were atypical cells detected on the sample. There are many different categories of test results, ranging anywhere from undetermined significance, mildly abnormal, or highly abnormal.

Should I be worried about abnormal Pap smear?

Being alarmed or worried is a completely normal reaction when told your Pap smear is abnormal. An abnormal Pap smear may indicate that you have an infection or abnormal cells called dysplasia. It’s important to remember that abnormal Pap smear results do not mean you have cancer.