Abnormal Pap Specialist

Abnormal pap smears can be a concerning diagnosis for many women. It is often recommended that all women between the ages of 21 and 65 get regular pap smears as part of their health care routine. Abnormal results from a pap smear can be an indication of abnormal tissue growth, which may require further testing and treatment.

At Maiden Lane Medical, we use advanced techniques to identify the cause of abnormal results so women throughout the New York City metro region can receive the most appropriate and effective care.

If you have a question regarding pap smears or abnormal pap smear results, contact us today to speak to one of our expert gynecologists!

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What Is a Pap Smear?

A pap smear is a medical procedure used to check for abnormal cells in the cervix. It involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope. This helps detect cervical cancer or could lead to cervical cancer if left unchecked.

The procedure can also help identify other conditions, such as infections, precancerous lesions, or even non-cancerous growths. Pap smears are recommended for all women over 21 and should be performed every three years until the age of 65.

Pap Smear

A Pap smear is a routine test that looks for abnormal cells in the cervix (the uppermost portion of the vagina). Finding and treating these cells early can help prevent cervical cancer.

What Does it Mean to Have Abnormal Pap Smear Results?

An abnormal pap smear test result may mean that more testing and follow-up care are necessary to determine if these abnormal cervical cells are concerning are not.

When a Pap smear (or cervical cancer screening test) is performed, the results of the test will show if any abnormal cells are present in the cervix.

Atypical squamous cells and atypical glandular cells are examples of abnormal cervical cell types that can be detected on a Pap smear. Depending on the severity of the abnormality, further diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy and colposcopy, may be recommended to evaluate for precancerous or cancerous changes in the cervix or other related areas.

However, it is important to note that not all abnormal pap smears are indicative of cancer, and most abnormal results are caused by non-cancerous changes such as an infection or inflammation.

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What Are the Causes of Abnormal Pap Smear Results?

Abnormal pap smear test results can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Trichomoniasis
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Cervical polyps
Inflammation or irritation from vaginal douches
Frequent intercourse
The use of contraceptive foams or jellies
Cancerous growths (cervical cancer)

It is also possible for abnormal pap smears to occur due to technical errors in sample collection during the testing process.

Are There Symptoms Associated with Abnormal Cervical Cells?

Symptoms associated with abnormal cells in the cervix may include vaginal bleeding after intercourse, pain during intercourse, pelvic pain or pressure, bleeding between periods, and an unusual discharge.

In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. It’s important to get regular check-ups so that any changes can be monitored and treated promptly.

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What Are the Follow-Up Procedures After Receiving Abnormal Pap Test Results?

Following an abnormal pap smear result, your doctor will usually recommend further testing. This can include an HPV test to detect the presence of HPV, and in some cases, a colposcopy.

During a colposcopy, your doctor will use a magnifying instrument to get a closer look at your cervix. If they see any abnormalities during the colposcopy, they may take tissue samples (a biopsy) for additional testing.

If HPV is present or results from the biopsy are abnormal, your doctor may suggest other treatment options, such as loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). LEEP is a minimally invasive procedure that uses electric current to remove abnormal cells from the surface of the cervix or a portion of the cervical canal.

Once your HPV test, colposcopy, biopsy, and any other follow-up procedures are complete, your doctor will discuss the results and their implications with you. Your doctor will put together a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Visit Maiden Lane Medical Today

Pap smears are an important part of preventive health care for women. Early detection and treatment of any abnormalities found during a Pap smear can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Do you have questions about abnormal pap smears or pap smears in general? If so, then schedule an appointment with one of our pap smear specialists at Maiden Lane Medical, located in Manhattan, NY. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Medically Reviewed By

Fernando Mariz, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Women's Health Specialists

Rachel Barr, MD

Emily Blanton, MD

Janette Davison, MD

Ilene Fischer, MD

Dena Harris, MD

Kenneth A. Levey, MD MPH FACOG FACS

Fernando Mariz, MD

Jordan Pavia, NP

Savita Sukha, WHNP

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