Abnormal Pap Smears

Physicians and Surgeons for Women

Obstetricians & Gynecology located in Springfield, OH

Around 20% of women have one or more abnormal Pap smears during their lifetime. When you have an abnormal pap smear, the compassionate and committed team at Physicians and Surgeons for Women is here for you. The board-certified team has helped Springfield, Ohio area women with all of their health and wellness needs for more than 45 years. They use the newest diagnostic imaging and women’s health initiatives to identify possible problems and start immediate treatment if you need it. Call the office to schedule your appointment today.

937-323-7340

Abnormal Pap Smears Q & A

How common are abnormal pap smears?

Abnormal pap smears are far more common than you might think, as many women have at least one abnormal result during their life.

If you have an abnormal pap smear, don’t worry. With 45 years of history as a leading women’s health facility, Physicians and Surgeons for Women have the equipment, knowledge, and skills to properly diagnose and treat any problem related to an abnormal pap smear.

Does an abnormal pap smear mean I have cervical cancer?

An abnormal pap smear does not always mean you have cervical cancer; most women with abnormal results do not. An abnormal pap smear can, however, reveal irregular cells that may warrant a closer exam.

Usually, those abnormal cells are human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common cause of cervical cancer. Most of the time, HPV goes away on its own without causing cancer. In some cases, you may need treatment to eliminate the HPV before it can turn into cancer.

A pap smear is an effective early warning system, often identifying potentially dangerous cells in the very early stages.

What happens after an abnormal pap smear?

After an abnormal pap smear, the next step depends on your test results, age, risk factors for cervical cancer, and other individual factors. In many cases, you will need a colposcopy.

A colposcopy is an in-office procedure at Physicians and Surgeons for Women. During this short procedure, your specialist examines your cervix under high magnification. If they identify any potentially abnormal tissue, they may take a tiny cervical cell sample for testing (a biopsy).

The specialists use their in-office state-of-the-art digital colposcopy machine from DySIS™, the industry leader in colposcopy equipment, to perform your test. DySIS measures and maps areas of abnormal cell growth with pinpoint accuracy.

A colposcopy is a virtually painless test, with only a quick sting during the cell collection.

How often do I need screening after an abnormal pap smear?

After an abnormal pap smear and follow-up testing and treatments, you may need pap smears more often than before. Your specialists can recommend a test interval according to your particular health needs, which may range from every 6 months to every five years.

Physicians and Surgeons for Women will always put your health, comfort, and convenience first. Schedule your on-site testing by calling the office today.

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