Abnormal Pap smear results may be a sign of cancer or they can be caused by something far less worrisome like a common yeast infection. Our doctors are skilled in diagnosing the causes of abnormal Pap tests so women in and around the Westside and the South Bay areas, can get the most appropriate care.
Request an AppointmentWhat does it mean if I have an abnormal Pap smear?
Abnormal Pap smear results can be caused by lots of factors. The most common cause is the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is actually a family of viruses that affect most sexually active people at some point in their lives. While in most cases it clears up on its own, some types of HPV can persist and may even cause genital warts. A few types of HPV have been associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. Sometimes, an abnormal Pap result may occur as a result of a yeast infection or other infection or sexually transmitted disease. In a few cases, it can occur because of the presence or cancerous or precancerous cells.
How can Dr. Bruksch determine the cause of my abnormal results?
If you have an abnormal Pap test, Dr. Bruksch will use a simple procedure called a colposcopy to look at the cells of your cervix and evaluate them for abnormal changes. A colposcopy is performed is much the same way as a Pap test. A speculum will be used to gently widen your vagina, and a special solution will be applied to your cervix to help highlight abnormal cells. An instrument called a colposcope is used for the exam. A colposcope has a tiny camera and magnifying lenses that enable our doctors to perform a thorough assessment of abnormal cells. When he feels it’s necessary to remove a small sample of cells (a biopsy) for further microscopic evaluation, he can remove the cells during the exam without the need for a separate procedure.
Do abnormal results mean I’m going to develop cancer?
No, most abnormal results do not indicate cancer. If our doctors believe the cells look “suspicious,” he’ll perform a biopsy so they can be further evaluated.