Abnormal Pap Smears

What Is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear is a routine screening test that checks for abnormal cells in the cervix, which may indicate infection, inflammation, or early signs of cervical cancer. Regular Pap smears help detect problems early, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of serious conditions.

At Manasa Hospital, we provide comprehensive cervical health screening with expert evaluation and treatment options for abnormal Pap smears.

What Does an Abnormal Pap Smear Mean?

An abnormal result does not always mean cancer. It simply means that some cells in your cervix are not typical and require further evaluation. Possible causes of abnormal Pap smears include:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection – A common viral infection that can cause cervical cell changes.
• Inflammation or infection – Such as bacterial or yeast infections.
• Precancerous cells – Dysplasia or changes that may develop into cancer if untreated.
• Recent sexual activity or hormonal changes – Can sometimes affect test results.

Types of Abnormal Pap Smear Results

Your Pap smear report may include one of the following findings:

• Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASCUS) – Mild cell changes, often due to HPV or inflammation.
• Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (LSIL) – Early changes, usually caused by HPV, that may go away on their own.
• High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (HSIL) – More serious changes that may develop into cervical cancer if left untreated.
• Atypical Glandular Cells (AGC) – Unusual changes in glandular cells that require further testing.
• Cervical Cancer Cells – Rare but serious, requiring immediate follow-up.

Next Steps After an Abnormal Pap Smear

If you receive an abnormal result, your doctor may recommend:

• HPV Testing – To check for high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus.
• Colposcopy – A procedure using a special microscope to examine the cervix in detail.
• Biopsy – A small sample of cervical tissue is taken for further examination.
• Follow-up Pap Smears – If minor changes are detected, repeat testing may be advised in 6-12 months.

Treatment for Abnormal Cervical Cells

If further tests confirm abnormal cell changes, treatment options may include:

• Cryotherapy – Freezing abnormal cells to remove them.
• Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) – Using an electrical loop to remove abnormal tissue.
• Conization (Cone Biopsy) – Removing a cone-shaped piece of the cervix for examination.
• HPV Vaccination – Recommended to protect against high-risk HPV types.

Preventive Care & Cervical Health

• Get regular Pap smears as advised by your doctor (every 3 years or as recommended).
• Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of HPV infections.
• Quit smoking, as smoking increases cervical cancer risk.
• Maintain a healthy immune system with proper nutrition and regular exercise.