What can an abnormal Pap smear indicate?

Most often, the abnormal test result means there have been cell changes caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). That’s the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), and can be linked to cervical cancer. Changes to your cervical cells caused by HPV can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Are abnormal Pap smears common?

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 can cause an abnormal Pap smear besides HPV?

5 Common Reasons Your Pap Smear is Abnormal

• You forgot to observe the pre-Pap recommendations.
• There is a slightly irregular cell that is nothing to worry about.
• You have a yeast or bacterial infection.
• HPV and other STDs.
• Cervical Dysplasia.

Should I be worried about an 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?

“I Received an Abnormal Pap Test. 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.

Can stress cause abnormal Pap?

But she noted that many researchers speculate that stress may somehow be involved in cervical cancer because stressful times in women’s lives can often be associated with abnormal Pap smear results.

Is an abnormal Pap an STD?

Yes, almost always an abnormal pap smear is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) of which there are over 100 different types and are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. If it is caused by HPV, then most likely you will be evaluated with a colposcopic exam.

What infections show up on a pap smear?

Yeast, trichomonas, chlamydia, or gonorrhea infection can cause the cervical cells to appear inflamed. After the infection is treated, the Pap smear result usually returns to normal. If the Pap smear result is positive because of an infection, the underlying cause should be treated.