Abnormal Pap Smear
Abnormal Pap smears are a common occurrence. Up to 70% of women will have one abnormal Pap in their lifetime. Regular Pap smears beginning at 21 are extremely important to prevent cervical cancer.
Causes of an Abnormal Pap Smear
- Human Papillomavirus
- Immunocompromised state
- Unprotected sex (without a condom)
- Multiple sexual partners
- Smoking
Treatment
Treatment sometimes is only repeating the Pap smear in 4 months, if the Pap is mildly abnormal. Often, however, treatment includes:
- Colposcopy: magnifying the cervix and possibly taking biopsies of abnormal areas
- LEEP / Conization: removing a portion of the cervix that is abnormal
- Hysterectomy: removing the uterus for severely abnormal precancerous lesions or for repeated abnormal Pap smears and biopsies.
Dr. Riley will discuss what is best for you if your Pap is abnormal.