6 Reasons for Abnormal Pap Smear Every Woman Needs to Know

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Pap smears are a test that your gynecologist uses to check for abnormal cells on your cervix. A cervix scraping might tell your doctor if there are any anomalies that need to be investigated further. Cervical cancer screening is one of the most prevalent causes for a Pap test.

However, according to the National Library of Medicine, an abnormal Pap test result does not always imply cancer. An odd result could be a sign of anything more serious or as simple as the start of your period. If the Pap result is abnormal, your doctor will explain what it means and what further tests or treatment you need.

1. Human Papillomavirus 

The presence of human papillomavirus is one of the most common causes of abnormal Pap smears (HPV). HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (STDs). 

It can affect both men and women, and there are usually no indications or symptoms. This is why, if you've been diagnosed with the virus, you should talk to your sexual partner about it. In many cases, HPV will go away on its own and will not cause any other health problems. However, in some situations, it might result in the development of cancers, such as cervical cancer.

2. Cervical Dysplasia 

Cervical dysplasia is not cancer, but rather an abnormal alteration in the cells on the cervix's surface that might lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. Cervical dysplasia has several stages. If you have mild or low-grade dysplasia, your doctor may decide to just watch you with follow-up exams for the time being until any more changes occur. Your doctor will most likely propose removing the cells if the dysplasia has progressed to that stage.

3. Cervical Cancer 

An abnormal Pap smear test is most likely how you'll be diagnosed with cervical cancer. Cervical cancer usually has few symptoms until it has progressed to the advanced stages. Cervical cancer is common all throughout the world, but because of early identification through Pap screenings, it is significantly less common in the United States.

4. Trichomoniasis and Other STDs

The sexually transmitted disease trichomoniasis is another major cause of abnormal Pap smears, especially in women aged 16 to 35. According to the National Library of Medicine, trichomoniasis can cause a variety of symptoms, including vaginal irritation, odor, and discharge.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment for a Pap smear test to see if you have the condition, which requires antibiotic treatment. Since this STD can affect both men and women, it's important to talk to your sexual partner about your results.

It's crucial to keep in mind that a Pap smear test assesses the risk of cervical cancer. Herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhea are examples of prevalent STDS that require extra testing. If you're having any strange symptoms or have had unprotected sex, talk to your doctor about your testing choices.

5. Vaginal Infection 

A negative Pap test result could suggest that you have a vaginal infection. If you have an infection, you may notice symptoms like vaginal itching and foul-smelling discharge. Doctors will prescribe a course of therapy based on the type of infection you have, and may do a follow-up screening test to rule out any potential complications.

6. Harmless Reasons for Abnormal Pap Smear 

A Pap smear might come out abnormal for a variety of causes, including a lab error. The cells of the cervix can be affected if you have recently had sexual intercourse. Cervix alterations can also be caused by having recently menstruated or being close to the start of your cycle. Tampons and even having a bath before your test can have an impact on the findings.

There are a variety of reasons for abnormal Pap smears, so don't panic until you've had a chance to discuss the results with your doctor and figure out what to do next. Pap smears should not be feared, regardless of the outcome. They can, after all, save lives.