Receiving an abnormal cervical screening result can understandably be worrying, particularly if you are unsure what the result means or what will happen next.
The important thing to know is that an abnormal cervical screening result does not mean that you have cervical cancer. Most people who have an abnormal result do not have cancer.
Cervical screening is designed to identify high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and changes to the cells of the cervix at an early stage. Finding these changes means that they can be monitored or treated where necessary, helping to prevent cervical cancer from developing.
At Gynae Solution, we understand that receiving an abnormal result can leave you with questions and concerns. We can provide specialist assessment and explain your results and any further investigations or treatment you may need.
What Does an Abnormal Smear Result Mean?
Cervical screening looks for high-risk HPV, which can cause changes to the cells of the cervix.
If HPV is found, the laboratory will usually examine the sample for abnormal cell changes.
Abnormal cells are not the same as cancer cells. In many cases, these changes are caused by an HPV infection and may return to normal without treatment.
The result may be described using terms such as low-grade or high-grade cell changes, depending on the appearance of the cells.
Your result will also determine what happens next. You may be advised to have another screening test after a period of time, or you may be referred for a colposcopy to examine your cervix more closely.
What Causes Abnormal Cervical Cells?
The most common cause of abnormal cervical cell changes is infection with a high-risk type of HPV.
HPV is extremely common and can be passed through sexual contact. Most people will have HPV at some point during their lives, often without knowing they have it.
In most cases, the body's immune system clears the infection naturally. However, if a high-risk HPV infection persists, it can sometimes cause changes to the cells of the cervix.
There are also other factors that may affect cervical cell health, including smoking and having a weakened immune system.
Having HPV does not mean that you or your partner has been unfaithful. HPV can remain in the body for many years, meaning it is often impossible to know when or from whom the infection was acquired.
What Happens After an Abnormal Smear?
What happens next depends on your screening result, your age, your previous screening history and whether high-risk HPV or abnormal cells have been identified.
You may be advised to:
- Have another cervical screening test sooner than your routine appointment
- Have a colposcopy
- Have a small biopsy of the cervix
- Receive treatment for abnormal cells
- Continue with routine screening
Your screening result will explain what follow-up is recommended.
If you are referred for further investigation, this does not mean that cancer has been diagnosed. A referral simply means that your cervix needs to be examined in more detail.
What Is a Colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a specialist examination that allows the cervix to be viewed in greater detail.
During the procedure, a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina, similar to a cervical screening examination. A specialist then uses a colposcope, which is a type of magnifying microscope, to examine the cervix.
The colposcope remains outside your body and does not enter the vagina.
Special solutions may be applied to the cervix to make abnormal areas easier to identify.
If an area of concern is seen, a small sample of tissue may be taken. This is called a biopsy and will be sent to a laboratory for examination.
The procedure is usually relatively quick, although you may experience some pressure or discomfort.
You can talk to your healthcare professional if you are anxious or have previously found cervical examinations difficult or painful.
What Happens If a Biopsy Is Needed?
A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the cervix.
The sample is examined under a microscope to determine whether abnormal cells are present and, if so, how significant the changes are.
The results may show that there are no significant abnormalities, low-grade changes or higher-grade changes.
Importantly, abnormal cells are not cancer.
Some changes will return to normal without treatment, while others may require treatment to prevent them from developing into cervical cancer.
Your specialist will explain what your results mean and whether further monitoring or treatment is recommended.
Does an Abnormal Smear Mean I Have Cancer?
In most cases, no.
An abnormal cervical screening result is much more commonly associated with HPV infection or changes to cervical cells than with cancer.
The purpose of cervical screening is to identify these changes early, before they have the opportunity to develop into cancer.
If a colposcopy or biopsy identifies more significant abnormalities, treatment can usually be offered to remove the affected cells.
Only a small proportion of people referred for further investigation will be diagnosed with cervical cancer.
Treatment for Abnormal Cervical Cells
Not all abnormal cervical cell changes require treatment.
If the changes are considered low risk, your healthcare professional may recommend monitoring them with repeat cervical screening.
If higher-grade changes are identified, treatment may be recommended to remove the abnormal cells.
One of the most common treatments is LLETZ (large loop excision of the transformation zone). This procedure uses a thin heated wire loop to remove the affected area of cervical tissue.
Other treatments may be appropriate depending on the location and extent of the abnormal cells.
The aim of treatment is to remove abnormal cells before they have the opportunity to develop into cervical cancer.
Risks and Benefits of Treatment
The benefit of treating significant abnormal cervical cells is that it can substantially reduce the risk of those cells developing into cervical cancer.
As with any procedure, there are potential risks. These can include bleeding, infection and discomfort following treatment.
For most people, treatment is straightforward and does not cause long-term problems. However, treatment to the cervix can have implications for future pregnancies, particularly if a larger amount of cervical tissue needs to be removed or if treatment is repeated.
Your specialist will discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives with you and take your individual circumstances into account before recommending treatment.
Recovery and Follow-Up
After a cervical biopsy or treatment, you may experience some light bleeding, spotting or discharge. You will usually be given advice about how to care for yourself while the cervix heals and when you can return to normal activities.
It is important to attend any follow-up appointments or repeat cervical screening tests that are recommended.
Follow-up allows your healthcare team to check that the abnormal cells have been successfully treated or that previously identified changes have returned to normal.
When Should I Seek Further Advice?
If you have received an abnormal cervical screening result, it is important not to panic. Follow the advice provided with your result and attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
You should also speak to your GP if you experience symptoms such as:
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
- Unusual vaginal bleeding after the menopause
- Persistent or unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Cervical screening is designed to prevent cervical cancer and does not replace an assessment of symptoms.
Specialist Care for Abnormal Cervical Smears
An abnormal smear result can raise many questions, but it is important to remember that an abnormal result is not a diagnosis of cancer.
At Gynae Solution, we provide specialist assessment and clear, personalised advice for patients who have received an abnormal cervical screening result. Mr Jafaru Abu will take the time to explain your results, discuss any further investigations that may be appropriate and ensure you understand your treatment options.
If you have received an abnormal cervical smear result and would like specialist advice, contact Gynae Solution to arrange a consultation with Mr Jafaru Abu.
Common questions
How soon can I be seen?
Daily appointments are available at The Park Hospital. Call the secretary on 0115 966 2049, or send an enquiry below and we will reply within 24 hours on business days.
Do I need a GP referral?
Referrals from GPs are welcome, and you can also enquire directly. If you are using private medical insurance, check with your insurer whether a referral is required for your policy. See GP referrals and fees and insurance.
What does a consultation cost?
A new consultation is £250 and a follow-up consultation is £150. The cost of any tests, procedures or surgery is quoted individually after your consultation. See fees and insurance.
Enquiries
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