Depending on the results of all of the tests, you might have a repeat cervical screening test in 12 months, to see if the HPV infection has cleared, or might have a follow-up procedure called a colposcopy. It's important to remember that HPV infections usually clear on their own.
In the U.S., around three million Pap smears come back abnormal each year, but less than 1% are related to cervical cancer, Ferris explains. “Some people may have a yeast or bacterial infection, which can make cells appear reactive on the test.”
As it grows, cervical cancer might cause signs and symptoms, such as:
An abnormal Pap test result rarely means cancer is present, especially in someone who has regular, annual Pap tests. An abnormal result means there are cells in the cervix that look unusual, which can be caused by yeast or bacterial infection, irritation, benign growths, hormonal changes, or pre-cancer.
If previous Pap test results came back showing abnormal cells, your provider might recommend more frequent testing going forward. Abnormal cells can range from being mildly unusual to precancerous. Depending on the degree of abnormality, follow-up testing might be required in a year or even sooner.
Your Cervical Screening Test shows you have an HPV infection which is likely to clear up within 12 months. You do not need further investigation straight away, but you do need to have another Cervical Screening Test in 12 months. Your next test in 12 months will confirm if the infection has cleared up or not.
A yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungi can cause inflammation of the cervix and surrounding tissues. This inflammation can trigger changes in cervical cells that may appear abnormal during a Pap smear.
And chances are, if you get an abnormal result, it's because of a treatable condition.
The first stage of cervical cancer is carcinoma in situ (also known as precancer or severe dysplasia), in which a group of abnormal cells has started to grow but has not yet spread to nearby tissues.
Symptoms of human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV does not usually cause any symptoms. Most people who have it do not realise and do not have any problems. But sometimes the virus can cause painless growths or lumps around your vagina, penis or anus (genital warts).
If left untreated, it may take 10 years or more for precancerous conditions of the cervix to turn into cervical cancer, but in rare cases this can happen in less time. Precancerous conditions of the cervix happen in an area called the transformation zone.
Sexton says the most common cervical cancer symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Although women often think bleeding is normal, it's important to see your doctor if you experience: Bleeding between menstrual periods. Heavier menstrual periods.
Early warning signs of endometrial cancer can include:
An abnormal Pap smear result doesn't always mean that you have gynecological cancer. However, to make sure you don't — and to check for other health complications — your OB/GYN will likely order a colposcopy, a test that closely examines your cervix, vagina, and vulva.
Menopause – Finally, changes that you experience during menopause can actually trigger an abnormal Pap smear result. As your body undergoes during menopause, your cervical cells can experience changes that mimic precancerous conditions, even though the cells are not cancerous.
Chemoradiation. You may be offered chemoradiation for stage 1B1 cervical cancer. It is often a main treatment for stage 1B2 or higher cervical cancer. It is used if you can't have surgery or choose not to have surgery.
Referral guidelines for individuals with symptoms or if the appearance of the cervix is suspicious. An individual must be referred to colposcopy and should be seen within 2 weeks of referral (≥93% of cases) if the appearance of the cervix is suspicious or they have symptoms consistent with cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer in its earliest stages may not have any symptoms. But when women do have symptoms, abnormal vaginal bleeding is among the most common. That could mean anything from a faint tinge of pink in otherwise clear vaginal discharge to extremely heavy menstrual periods.
HSIL changes seen on a Pap test can be CIN 2, CIN2/3, or CIN 3.
Several authors have suggested that stress increases risk for abnormal Pap results (4–6), and stress management may decrease risk for cervical disease in HIV seropositive women (7).
LLETZ stands for large loop excision of the transformation zone. It's also known as loop electrosurgical excision (LEEP) or loop diathermy. This is the most common treatment for abnormal cervical cells. Your colposcopist uses a thin wire loop to remove the transformation zone of the cervix.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, can cause abnormal Pap smear results. Cervical dysplasia: This is a condition in which the cells of the cervix start to grow abnormally. It is often a precancerous condition that can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated.
If you are experiencing vaginal infections, such as a yeast infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), or other types of irritation, it is best to wait until the infection clears up before scheduling your Pap smear. These conditions can affect the accuracy of the test and may also make the procedure more uncomfortable.
The most common reason for abnormal Pap smear results is HPV. HPV is the leading risk factor for cervical dysplasia, which can develop into cervical cancer. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent high-risk HPV infections. The highest rates of HPV infections occur in adolescents and young adults.