The laboratory looks for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV). If HPV is found, the same cervical sample is then re-tested to look for any abnormal cervical cells changes. It usually takes 1 to 2 weeks for your healthcare provider to receive your results from the laboratory.
Pap test results generally depend upon the lab that examines the sample. Some labs only take three days to process the results, while others may need a week or two.
Pap Smear Results. Your doctor will get them within a few days. They'll come back either negative (normal) or positive (abnormal).
Increased demand is also contributing to a backlog. “We've had a huge influx of pap smears come in,” Michelle Hoad said. “As you can understand, people didn't go into the doctor during COVID… they decided to wait, so they are all doing them now.”
What's Next?” 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.
ASC-US is the most common abnormal Pap test result. ASC-US stands for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance. “Squamous” refers to the type of cells that make up the tissue that covers the cervix. LSIL—This means that the cervical cells show changes that are mildly abnormal.
An abnormal result means that cell changes were found on your cervix. This usually does not mean that you have cervical cancer. Abnormal changes on your cervix are likely caused by HPV. The changes may be minor (low-grade) or serious (high-grade).
A Pap test is a procedure that involves collecting cells from your cervix and examining them under a microscope. A Pap test can detect cervical cancer and changes in your cervical cells that may increase your risk of cervical cancer in the future.
The results of your pap test could take two to three weeks. Normal results may be mailed or emailed to you. If your results are abnormal, your doctor's office may call you to set up additional tests or procedures. If your results are abnormal, do not panic.
There are actually lots of reasons your Pap smear may come back “abnormal.” You may have an infection or inflammation, growth or cysts, changes in your hormones (usually due to pregnancy or menopause), problems with your immune system related to diabetes, HIV, or autoimmune diseases.
In addition, a Pap may check for certain sexually transmitted infections, such as, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Trichomonas. Some Pap tests also evaluate for infections such as Yeast and Bacterial Vaginosis.
It doesn't take much to prepare for a pap smear. Some women may feel like they need to shave their pubic hair, but it's unnecessary for this test. You should only tackle it if you'll be more comfortable. Your doctor has seen it all, so a little bit of pubic hair won't bother him.
Preparing for a Pap Smear Test
You can shower, but don't tub bathe for 24 hours before the test. Refrain from having intercourse for at least two days before the test.
Ovarian cysts may be diagnosed at the time of a pelvic examination, such as a Pap smear. Alternatively, the cyst may be imaged by ultrasound, CT or MRI scans. Blood tests, such as tumour markers (substances produced by certain types of cysts), may be required to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis.
The only gynecologic cancer the Pap test screens for is cervical cancer. Since there is no simple and reliable way to screen for any gynecologic cancer except for cervical cancer, it is especially important to recognize warning signs, and learn what you can do to reduce your risk.
A biopsy performed during laparoscopy is often used to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis. Can a Pap smear detect endometriosis? No, a Pap smear cannot detect endometriosis. A Pap smear is used to diagnose cervical cancer and HPV.
Abnormal Pap test results: An abnormal test result may also be called a positive test result. Some of the cells of the cervix look different from the normal cells. An abnormal test result does not mean you have cancer. Your health care provider will recommend monitoring, more testing, or treatment.
Abnormal Pap smear results are common. According to the National Institutes of Health, 3.8% of Pap tests come back abnormal.
There are 2 different kinds of HPV positive result. You'll be invited for screening in 1 year and again 1 year later if you still have HPV. If you still have HPV after 2 years, you'll be asked to have a colposcopy.
The Pap smear, introduced by George Papanikolaou in 1943, is a simple, inexpensive, and painless procedure. Although primarily intended for the screening of carcinoma cervix, it also helps in diagnosing cervical infections.
Some conditions that cause abnormal Pap smear results can produce uncomfortable symptoms, such as: Pain, itching or burning around the genital area during sexual intercourse or urination. Unusual vaginal discharge. Rashes, sores, warts or bumps around the genital area.
In rare cases, the results of a colposcopy and biopsy will show cervical cancer. If this happens, treatment should be started as soon as possible. You'll be referred to a team of specialists, who will advise you about your treatment. Cervical cancer diagnosed through screening tends to be found at an earlier stage.
High Grade Abnormal Pap Test Results
High grade cervical cells identified by Pap test results can indicate the presence of precancerous cervical dysplasia—which can be caused by strains of HPV that are associated with a high risk of developing cancer—or, sometimes, cervical cancer itself.