Our services
Abnormal Pap smear
Overview
What your result means, what happens next and why early follow-up protects your health. A Pap smear (or Pap test) is one of the most effective ways to protect your cervical health. Hearing that your result is "abnormal" can be worrying, but it is rarely a cause for alarm. In most cases it simply means a few cells on your cervix look different and need a closer look. At Minerva Women's Healthcare, our specialist gynaecologist will explain your result clearly and guide you through every step.
At a glance
- A Pap smear checks the cells of your cervix for changes that could become cervical cancer if left untreated.
- An abnormal result is not a diagnosis. Most abnormal results are not cancer.
- Follow-up may include a repeat or HPV test, a colposcopy, a biopsy and, if needed, a simple procedure called LEEP.
- Finding and treating cell changes early is what makes cervical cancer largely preventable.
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a quick screening test, done as part of a routine gynaecological exam. It looks for changes in the cells of your cervix, the opening at the lower end of your womb (uterus). Women should begin cervical screening from age 21, and your doctor will advise how often to repeat it based on your age, history and previous results. The test may feel mildly uncomfortable, but it is fast, and you can go straight home or back to work afterwards.
What happens during the test?
- You change into a loose-fitting gown and lie on the examination table
- Your gynaecologist gently places a speculum in the vagina to open its walls so the cervix is easy to see
- A small sample of cells is quickly collected from the cervix with a soft brush or spatula
- The sample is sent to the laboratory for testing, and you can leave the clinic
What does a Pap smear look for?
The test looks for abnormal cell changes on the cervix that could be precancerous. These changes are called dysplasia. Dysplasia does not automatically mean you have cancer, but if it is left alone, it can develop into cervical cancer over time. A Pap smear screens for cervical cancer only. It does not detect cancers of the ovaries, uterus or vagina. It can, however, sometimes pick up other findings, such as:
- Infections, including yeast and bacterial infections
- Trichomoniasis
- Signs of human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus behind genital warts and most cervical cell changes
- Signs of herpes infection
What does an abnormal result mean?
An abnormal Pap smear is not the same as a diagnosis. You may well have nothing serious to worry about. Results can come back abnormal for harmless reasons, such as an infection, inflammation, having had sex shortly before the test, or using certain vaginal products or washes. Because the cause is not always clear from the test alone, a few more steps help your gynaecologist work out what is happening and how best to treat it.
What happens next?
Your follow-up depends on your result. Your gynaecologist will explain which of these you need:
Repeat or HPV test: A second Pap test, or a test for high-risk HPV, to confirm the finding.
Colposcopy: Your gynaecologist uses a magnifying instrument to look closely at the cells of your cervix. It is done in the clinic. If anything looks abnormal, small biopsy samples are taken.
Biopsy: The tiny tissue samples are sent to the laboratory for detailed testing to show exactly what the cells are doing.
LEEP: If the biopsy is also abnormal, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure removes the abnormal cells. The area is numbed with local anaesthesia, and a thin wire loop carrying a gentle electrical current carefully removes the affected tissue.
Preparing for your Pap smear
A few simple steps help give the most accurate result. For about two days before your test:
- Avoid sexual intercourse
- Do not use tampons, vaginal creams, medicines, douches or washes
- Try to book the test when you are not on your period
If you are unsure, just call us. We are happy to advise.
Common questions
Does an abnormal Pap smear mean I have cancer?
No. An abnormal result means some cells look different. Many changes are mild and clear up on their own, and others are found early, long before they could become cancer. That is exactly why screening matters.
Should I be worried about the colposcopy?
Most women find it very manageable. It is done in the clinic, takes a short time, and you may feel pressure or a brief pinch if a biopsy is taken. Most women go home the same day.
Can cervical changes be prevented?
Regular screening, the HPV vaccine and safer sex all lower your risk. Ask us whether the HPV vaccine is right for you or your daughter.
When should I contact the clinic?
Please call us promptly if you have unusual or heavy vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, pelvic pain, or an unusual discharge, and if you have been told your result was abnormal but have not yet had a follow-up visit.
Due for a Pap smear, or worried about a result?
Book your appointment with Minerva Women's Healthcare online or by calling our office. It takes about a minute, and no account is needed.
Ready to book?
Choose a time that suits you. Consultations are private, one-on-one, online or in person.
