Abnormal Paps/HPV Evaluation

Abnormal Pap smears are actually not uncommon, so patients should try not to panic about an abnormal test result. An abnormal Pap smear does not equal cancer and, in fact, most people who have abnormal Pap test results do not have cancer. The abnormal Pap smear means that there are cellular changes that need to be watched closely or investigated further with colposcopy. A colposcopy allows your doctor to do an in depth exam of your cervix, vagina or vulva with a microscope. This is usually done because of an abnormal pap smear, Type 16 or 18 HPV, or a lesion noted during a routine exam. Acetic acid or vinegar is placed on the cervix and vagina to stain the cells and allow the clinician to see better with the colposcope where the abnormal cells are located and the size of any abnormal areas.  Biopsies may be done to evaluate the abnormal cells.