Decoding Your Pap Smear Results: What an Abnormal Result Really Means

Hey, empowered queens! Let's talk about something that might make you a little nervous: abnormal Pap smear results. If you've ever received one, you know that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. Suddenly, your mind starts racing with worst-case scenarios, and you're convinced that you must have HPV or even cervical cancer. But hold up! Before you start spiraling, let's break down what an abnormal Pap really means and what steps you should take next.

‍

First things first, let's get back to basics. A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a routine screening that looks for signs of pre-cancer and cellular changes on your cervix. It's recommended that women and others assigned female at birth between the ages of 21 and 29 get a Pap smear every three years. After that, if your results are normal, you can switch to every five years. Easy peasy, right?

‍

Now, let's talk about HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. This sneaky little virus is responsible for most abnormal Pap results, but here's the thing: having HPV doesn't automatically mean you have cancer. In fact, most people who contract HPV clear the infection on their own within a year or two. However, certain high-risk strains of HPV can cause cellular changes that, if left untreated, may lead to cervical cancer down the line.

‍

But wait, there's more! HPV isn't the only culprit behind abnormal Pap results. Yeast infections, bacterial infections, and even recent sexual activity can all cause your cells to look a little funky under the microscope. So before you start freaking out, take a deep breath and remember that less than 1% of abnormal Paps are actually related to cervical cancer.

‍

So, what happens if you do get an abnormal result? The next steps depend on a few factors, like your age and whether HPV was detected. Your doctor might recommend a repeat Pap smear within a year to see if anything has changed, or they may treat you for any infections that were found. In some cases, they might suggest a colposcopy, which is like a super-powered version of a Pap smear that allows them to get a closer look at your cervix and take a biopsy if needed.

‍

If your colposcopy reveals cervical dysplasia (aka pre-cancer), don't panic! This is actually a good thing because it means your doctor caught the abnormal cells before they had a chance to turn into cancer. Depending on the severity of the dysplasia, you might need more frequent monitoring or a minor procedure to remove the abnormal cells. And in the very rare case that cancerous cells are found, you'll be referred for cancer treatment right away.

‍

Of course, the best way to avoid all of this is to reduce your risk of HPV in the first place. Getting vaccinated with GARDASIL®9 between the ages of 9 and 45 can protect you against the nine most common strains of HPV, and quitting smoking can help your body clear any existing infections more quickly. And don't forget the importance of regular check-ups with your gynecologist or nurse practitioner – they're your partner in crime when it comes to staying on top of your sexual and reproductive health.

‍

At the end of the day, an abnormal Pap result can be scary, but it's not a death sentence. By staying informed, proactive, and in touch with your healthcare team, you can catch any potential issues early and keep your cervix happy and healthy for years to come. And if you're ever feeling anxious or unsure about your results, don't hesitate to reach out to your provider or a trusted friend for support. Remember, you've got this!

‍

https://www.between.health/

‍

Follow us on social media:

Email: hi@between.health

Instagram: @betweenhealth

TikTok: @betweenhealth

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/between-health/

‍

Stay tuned for more posts on our blog: https://www.between.health/blog

‍

Note: Any information shared in our blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for any personal health concerns or book your visit here.

‍

Sources: For the most accurate and up-to-date information on this topic, consult reputable health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).