Does an abnormal Pap mean I have cancer?

Does an abnormal Pap mean I have cancer?

About 5% of all Pap tests will be abnormal, meaning that the sample contains atypical cervical cells. However, the majority of these cells are not cancerous or even precancerous. An abnormal Pap test result does not mean cancer, but it does require follow-up to rule out the possibility of cancer.

What percentage of abnormal smears are cancer?

Whilst about 1 in 20 women will have a smear test result which is abnormal, only about 1 in 2000 will have cervical cancer. That means approximately 1% of women with any grade of abnormal smear will have a cancer.

Should I be worried about abnormal Pap smear?

Most abnormal Pap smear results are nothing to worry about Most women will have at least one abnormal Pap smear result in their lifetime, with an overall average of 5% of all Pap tests coming back as “abnormal.” In most cases, the abnormal result is nothing to worry about, but it’s important to follow up to make sure.

What is the next step after an abnormal pap smear?

“I Received an Abnormal Pap Test. What’s Next?” Your next step is usually a minor procedure called a colposcopy. This procedure is a visual examination of the cervix using a low-powered microscope used to find and then biopsy abnormal areas in your cervix that may lead to cervical cancer.

What happens when they find abnormal cells in a smear test?

An abnormal cervical screening test result means that you have changes in the cells covering the neck of your womb (cervix). Abnormal cervical cells are not the same as cervical cancer. If left untreated, there is a risk that some abnormal cells could go on to develop into cervical cancer in the future.

What are the symptoms of abnormal cervical cells?

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

• Abnormal bleeding, such as. Bleeding between regular menstrual periods. Bleeding after sexual intercourse.
• Pelvic pain not related to your menstrual cycle.
• Heavy or unusual discharge that may be watery, thick, and possibly have a foul odor.
• Increased urinary frequency.
• Pain during urination.

How long does it take for abnormal cells to turn into cancer?

These aren’t cancer cells, but cells that may turn cancerous if left untreated for many years. It takes 10-15 years for pre-cancer to progress to cancer.

How long does it take for cervical cancer to develop from abnormal cells?

Cervical cancer develops very slowly. It can take years or even decades for the abnormal changes in the cervix to become invasive cancer cells. Cervical cancer might develop faster in people with weaker immune systems, but it will still likely take at least 5 years.

What kind of infections cause abnormal Pap smears?

Cause. Most abnormal Pap tests are caused by HPV infections. Other types of infection—such as those caused by bacteria, yeast, or protozoa (Trichomonas)—sometimes lead to minor changes on a Pap test called atypical squamous cells.

Should I be worried if I need a colposcopy?

Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if: You have had two abnormal Pap tests in a row that show atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) cell changes. You have ASC-US cell changes and certain risk factors, such as a high-risk type of HPV infection or a weakened immune system.

Will abnormal Pap go away?

They usually go away on their own and do not require treatment. CIN 2 changes are moderate and are typically treated by removing the abnormal cells. However, CIN 2 can sometimes go away on its own. Some women, after consulting with their health care provider, may decide to have a colposcopy with biopsy every 6 months.

Are abnormal cervical cells always cancerous?

Abnormal test results don’t mean that you have cancer. An abnormal cervical screening test result does not mean that you have cervical cancer. It means that cervical cell changes were found or that cells are infected with HPV. Depending on the results, you may need follow-up testing or treatment.