A Pap smear test is a simple procedure that looks for abnormal cell changes in the cervix. The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus, located at the top of your vagina. The Pap smear test can detect pre-cancerous cells. That means the cells can be removed before they have a chance to develop into cervical cancer, which makes this test a potential lifesaver.

 

Causes of abnormal Pap test

 

Some of the causes of abnormal Pap test:

• inflammation

• infection

• herpes

• trichomoniasis

• HPV

 

Treatment

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If you have an abnormal screening test result you might have a referral to the colposcopy clinic for a closer look at your cervix. During this examination, your doctor or specialist nurse (colposcopist) can take samples (biopsies) of any abnormal areas.

The colposcopist might offer you treatment at the same time as your colposcopy. Or you may go back for treatment once they have your biopsy results