Understanding Your Pap Smear Test Results

In light of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, Dallas OB/GYN PA would like to remind you to stay up to date on your Pap! It’s important to stay informed of your Pap smear test results.

A Pap test screens for cervical cancer. During a pelvic exam, your doctor collects cells from your cervix and sends them off to the lab. The Pap looks for any abnormal changes in the cells that could become cancerous over time if not managed properly. These abnormal changes are almost always caused by high-risk strains of HPV, or human papillomavirus.

What Do Your Pap Smear Test Results Mean?

If you have normal Pap smear test results, then you can continue with routine screening. If you have abnormal test results, first pause—you do NOT have cervical cancer. The next step is often a procedure called a colposcopy. This is done in the office. Your doctor takes a magnified look at your cervix using an instrument called a colposcope. This helps identify abnormal cervical tissue and allows your doctor to obtain very small biopsies from your cervix. These biopsies will give your doctor a lot more information than just your Pap test results.

Factors That Influence Your Abnormal Pap Smear Treatment Plan

There are some factors that can change your treatment plan:

Your age

If you are less than 25 years old and have only a mildly abnormal Pap, you may be asked to return in a year for your next Pap test. Research has shown that these mild changes usually resolve on their own when you are young. Chances are that your next Pap will be completely normal.

Pregnancy

It is safe to have a colposcopy while pregnant. Your doctor may or may not perform biopsies at the same time, depending on the appearance of your cervix. A repeat colposcopy is often recommended about 6 weeks postpartum. Thankfully, abnormal changes in your cervix often resolve after delivery.

Tips for Cervical Cancer Prevention

Here’s how to help prevent cervical cancer:

• Stay up to date on your Pap tests!
• Get the HPV vaccine. It is a two-dose series for those younger than age 15 and a three-dose series for those 15 and older. You can schedule your shots at Walgreens and CVS.
• If you have an abnormal Pap, stick to the follow-up plan recommended by your doctor.

Dallas OBGYN PA Offers a Variety of Services to Help You Stay Healthy

Whether you’re trying to get pregnant or you’re having your first Pap smear, we’re here for you. We’ve helped women at all stages maintain the healthiest life possible.

If you’re looking for a new medical home or even if you’re past due for your annual wellness exam, contact us for an appointment. We would consider it a privilege to care for you.