What does an abnormal smear mean?
An abnormal smear is also called a Papanicolaou (Pap) test where cells of the cervix change shape and size. The nucleus of these cells may also appear darker and larger and are referred to as dyskaryosis. Understandably, it's easy to feel nervous or worried to hear that your test results have come back abnormal so we have asked one of our expert gynaecologists Mr Stewart Disu to explain what this could possibly mean.
Could an abnormal smear test mean cancer?
No, it does not mean cancer in a large majority of cases but it does indicate the presence of pre-cancerous cells. These can change into cancer over a five to ten year period if left untreated.
What can cause an abnormal pap smear besides HPV?
Many different factors can cause an abnormal smear. Some of these include:
- smoking
- multiple sexual partners
- low immunity
These can predispose a woman to develop an abnormal smear.
What happens after an abnormal pap smear?
After you have had an abnormal pap smear, there may be some contact bleeding or spotting over a few days. The result usually takes a few days to a week as the smear is processed in a laboratory using a computerised liquid-based technique. When you receive the results, then you will have to have a colposcopy.
Will I need a colposcopy?
Yes, abnormal smears require a colposcopy. This is a simple procedure that can be done in a clinic setting using a magnifying lens called a colposcope. The timing of the colposcopy from the result of the smear depends on the severity of the result and whether there is the presence of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). For instance, mild dyskaryosis with HPV should have a colposcopy within six weeks. Those with moderate or severe dyskaryosis with HPV should have a colposcopy within two weeks.
How long does it take for abnormal cells to turn into cancer?
It can take approximately somewhere between five and ten years if untreated.
Do not hesitate to book an appointment with a gynaecologist for a smear test.