A pap smear is a routine exam done by a gynecologist. These exams are used to check for abnormal cells within the cervix. During a pap smear test, the doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina to open up the cervix. The cervix is then scraped and swapped to gather the cells from the cervix. The sample is then smeared onto a slide where it is then taken to a lab for observation and results.
Causes of an Abnormal Result
There are a number of reasons that an abnormal diagnosis is given. The main reason for an abnormal result may be because of a positive test for the HPV virus , or Human Papilloma Virus. This is a form of a sexually transmitted disease. These cell changes by HPV usually go away on their own. However, some Human Papilloma Viruses have been linked to cancer. Other causes of an abnormal pap test are simple things like an infection or bacteria found in the cervix. One main infection occurs in women often, and that is a yeast infection. Also, as we get older and go through menopause, this causes our cells to change and can give an abnormal reading.
Symptoms
A woman may not know that there is any problem developing within her cervix. Most of the time there is no symptoms associated with changes in abnormal cell growth. However, if a sexually transmitted disease is a cause of an abnormal result, then there may be symptoms to look for. Some of these symptoms are an abnormal amount of discharge from the vaginal area. This may be followed by an odor. Also, changes in color of the discharge is another sign of an infection. Pain, burning, and itching during intercourse, or while urinating, may be another sign. All of these are an indication that something isn’t normal and should be checked out by your doctor.
Who’s At Risk
Women who have had a number of sexual partners and who do not use condoms, may be at risk for contracting the HPV virus. This virus can usually stay in your body for years and you not even know it. Smoking can raise your chances for an abnormal result as well as an impaired immune system.
Treatment
Treatments for an abnormal pap smear test will depend on the severity of the cell changes within the cervix. These changes can be classified as mild, moderate, to severe. If the case is mild, like an infection, creams or antibiotics may be used to clear the infection up. If the results are moderate to severe, other treatments are needed to destroy the cells.
One treatment of destroying the cells is called Cryotherapy, or freezing the cells. A probe is inserted up the cervix and the cervix is then frozen to sub-zero temperatures. This freezing kills the abnormal cells which are later shed from the body.
Conclusion
An abnormal pap smear test can be brought on by the HPV virus or a simple infection. An abnormal result doesn’t always mean cervical cancer. It’s important to see your doctor for yearly check-ups. Yearly screenings is key to preventing abnormal results of a pap smear.
