What is an abnormal pap smear

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing.

A pap smear is done to ensure cervical cells are healthy. If cells are found to be suspect or carrying an infection/disease, the cells show up as being "abnormal". In a lot of these cases, a woman has been infected with the HPV virus - a common virus that can cause cervical cancer if not treated. The good news is that the vast majority of women never even get to that stage as these cells can be destroyed and the body will fight off the virus.

There is also a possibility that something else has been seen in your cells but mostly, it's HPV. Since nothing is confirmed, there is no need to worry about anything yet. This notice is sent to you as a precaution, and a follow up is needed to examine these cells more thoroughly in order to know what these abnormalities are.
Please contact your doctor's office now, to schedule a follow-up.
Best,
Susan