Abnormal Pap Smear

Best Abnormal Pap Smear Treatment & Diagnostics in Chembur, Mumbai

A pap smear or a pap test is a physical examination of the woman's cervix to check for any abnormality in the cells. It is generally done to test for cervical cancer. This test can detect precancerous cells and can be a potential life saver.  

What do we need to know about abnormal pap smear?

If the pap smear is positive, it means abnormal cells have been detected in your cervix. Although it doesn’t indicate cervical cancer, it does indicate future possibilities of developing the same. An abnormal pap smear can also indicate the presence of Human Papilloma Virus (HIV).

To know more, you can search for a gynecology doctor near you or visit a gynecology hospital in Mumbai.

What  causes an abnormal pap smear?

Apart from cervical cancer and HIV, there could be other reasons such as:

• inflammation
• infection
• herpes
• trichomoniasis

Who is at a higher risk of having an abnormal pap smear? 

Women who have:

• Got an abnormal pap test in the past
• Weak immune systems
• HIV positive
• Been exposed to diethylstilbestrol while in the womb 

What can you expect from the test?

It's a painless procedure. A speculum will be inserted to open your vagina. Then a doctor will use a swab to take a sample of your cervical cells. Microscopic examination of  the sample will detect abnormality in the cells, if any. The whole procedure takes only a few minutes to complete. 

What are the possible results of a pap smear?

The result could be normal, abnormal or unclear in some cases.

Normal or negative test report indicates that you have no abnormalities in the cervix cells and you are absolutely fine. Unclear or inconclusive test report means that there are changes or abnormality in your cervix cells but the reason is not clear. Abnormal test reports mean the cells of the cervix have some abnormality that could be because of HPV but it doesn't always confirm cervical cancer. This could indicate the presence of precancerous cells.

When do you need to see a doctor? 

When you have symptoms such as: 

• Abnormal vaginal discharge that has changed color, odor, amount and texture
• Pain and burning during intercourse and while urinating
• Sores, blisters, lumps or rashes on or around the pelvic or genital areas

Women aged between 21 and 65 years should have pap smear every three years. 

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chembur, Mumbai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

Conclusion

Pap smear is one of the best methods to detect cervical cancer and other sexually transmitted diseases like HIV. It's a very easy, smooth and painless diagnostic procedure and takes only a few minutes.