Every year, millions of women have Pap smears or tests to screen for cervical cancer. The cervix is the bottom portion of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This simple treatment is part of a routine gynecologist appointment. A Pap smear involves swabbing cells from your cervix and sending them to a lab where a clinician examines them under a microscope to determine whether they are normal or abnormal. Pap tests may be unpleasant and even awkward at times. Nonetheless, the majority of Pap test results are standard. However, 2% and 5% of individuals who get a Pap test will have an abnormal result. If you are one of those people, you are probably a little concerned about what Buckhead, Vinings, Smyrna, Roswell, Alpharetta, Midtown, Sandy S Abnormal pap smears, and HPV means. Here is what you should know.

  1.     Human Papillomavirus

The presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most prevalent causes of abnormal Pap smears. HPV is one of the most common STDs. It can affect men and women, and there are no apparent indications or symptoms. If you are infected with the virus, you should address it with your sexual partner. In most situations, HPV will go away on its own and will not cause any additional health problems. However, in some instances, it might result in cancer development, particularly cervical cancer.

  1.     Vaginal infection

An abnormal Pap test result might potentially suggest a vaginal infection, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. You may have signs such as vaginal itching and odorous discharge if you have an infection. A physician will suggest a course of therapy based on the type of illness you have, and a follow-up screening test may be performed to rule out any more concerns.

  1.     Other possible reasons for abnormal Pap tests

In rare cases, inflammation—perhaps from recent sex—can cause an abnormal Pap test result. Furthermore, menopause might induce altered cervical cells due to low estrogen levels. When there is not enough estrogen, cells might look strange and resemble precancerous conditions.

Tests that your doctor will conduct

During a colposcopy, your physician will place a speculum into your vagina, similar to how they would for a Pap test. They will use a colposcope to examine the cervix this time. This gadget with a lens and an intense light helps your doctor see your cervix more clearly. They will use vinegar or another liquid solution to swab your cervix. It will indicate any questionable regions. Your clinician will be able to view them through the colposcope lens. If your doctor notices any irregularities, they will take a biopsy sample. They will submit the tissue to a laboratory for further evaluation.

Because there are several abnormal Pap smear reasons, you should not worry before discussing the results with your specialist and determining the next steps. Regardless of the outcome, you should not fear Pap smears. After all, they may be lifesavers. Call Ideal Gynecology, LLC, or book your appointment online to learn more about an abnormal Pap smear.