ABNORMAL PAP SMEAR

Pap smear or Pap test is conducted as part of a woman's routine health examination, after the age of 21 years. It is not a diagnostic test, but is a screening tool used to detect any abnormal cells in the cervix.

Abnormal Pap smears may indicate the presence of infection or abnormal cells called dysplasia. An abnormal Pap smear may not necessarily denote cancer. These results highlight the requirement of supplementary testing to identify and confirm an underlying problem.

Causes of Abnormal Pap smears

An abnormal pap smear may indicate any of the following:

  • Dysplasia (abnormal cells that may be precancerous)
  • Atrophy or vaginal dryness especially after menopause
  • An infection or an inflammation
  • Herpes
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Recent sexual activity
  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection

Symptoms Associated with Abnormal Pap Results

Usually, abnormal cells do not produce any symptoms. Even the presence of HPV in an abnormal Pap smear is asymptomatic. Therefore, a regular Pap smear is beneficial in early detection of any abnormalities.

An abnormal Pap smear secondary to a sexually transmitted infection may induce the following symptoms:

  • Abnormal discharge from the vagina, such as change in the amount, colour, odour or texture
  • Abnormal sensations such as pain, burning, or itching in the pelvic or genital area during urination or sex
  • Sores, lumps, blisters, rashes or warts on or around the genitals

Your First Visit