Getting the call that your Pap smear results are abnormal can feel unsettling. It’s easy for your mind to jump immediately to worst-case scenarios, but in most cases, abnormal results don’t mean you have cancer. Instead, they signal that your provider needs to take a closer look to better understand what’s going on.
Pap smears remain one of the most effective tools in catching cervical changes early. Serving the greater Atlanta, Georgia, community, Ideal Gynecology, LLC, uses these screenings to catch abnormal cells long before they pose a serious threat to your health. Rest assured that if you receive an abnormal Pap smear result, we have you covered.
A Pap smear is a screening that looks for changes in the cells of your cervix that could indicate a risk for cervical cancer. An abnormal result means some of the cells don’t look quite right under a microscope. It’s crucial to know that this doesn’t mean you have cancer. In fact, most abnormal results are caused by low-grade changes or infections like human papillomavirus (HPV), which often clear on their own.
Your results may fall into different categories, including:
Each category gives your provider clues about what’s happening and what kind of follow-up may be needed.
After an abnormal Pap smear, the next step usually depends on your specific results and your age. In many cases, our team will recommend a follow-up test called a colposcopy.
A colposcopy is done in-office, using a magnifying instrument to take a closer look at your cervix. If any areas look concerning, they may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for further testing. This process is typically quick and well tolerated.
Sometimes, especially with low-grade changes, our team may suggest simply repeating the Pap smear in 6 to 12 months. Many mild abnormalities resolve on their own, especially in younger women.
If testing confirms that you have high-grade cervical changes (the kind that could develop into cancer over time), treatment may be necessary to remove the abnormal cells. At Ideal Gynecology, LLC, we offer several in-office procedures, including:
You can rely on our team to discuss your options in detail, explain the risks and benefits, and help you make an informed decision that fits your health goals and lifestyle.
Cervical cell changes tend to develop slowly, which means regular Pap smears give you time to catch and manage potential issues before they become serious. Even if you feel fine, don’t skip your routine screenings. For most women, that means every three years for a Pap smear or every five years when combined with HPV testing, unless your provider recommends more frequent testing based on your health history.
Keeping up with these screenings is one of the most effective ways to protect your reproductive health for the long term.
Hearing that your Pap smear is abnormal doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong. It simply means it’s time to pay closer attention, and the good news is that you’re already doing that by getting screened.
If you’ve received abnormal Pap results or are due for your next exam, our team at Ideal Gynecology, LLC is here to support you with compassionate, expert care. Contact us to schedule a visit today to stay on the path to protecting your reproductive health.
