When you get a Pap test, the hope is always that everything comes back normal. In cases where it doesn’t, it’s natural to feel anxious and worried. The good news is that an abnormal result doesn't mean you have cancer, but does mean your doctor needs to take a closer look.
At the OB-GYN practice of Alan B. Patterson, MD, our expert team is dedicated to providing the very best gynecological and reproductive care to patients in the Coral Springs, Florida, area. Pap tests play a key role in catching abnormal changes to the cervix early to prevent cancer.
Our team discusses how often to get a Pap test during your appointment. We also help you understand your results, and provide personalized care so that you never have to guess what your next steps should be.
A Pap smear checks for changes in cervical cells that may signal an increased risk of cervical cancer. It can also detect infections or inflammation. The test collects a small sample of cells from the cervix and sends it to a lab for analysis. There are several possible results:
Our team explains your individual results in-depth at your appointment.
Abnormal Pap results are more common than you might think. They don't mean cancer, but they do mean follow-up is needed. In many cases, abnormal changes resolve on their own, especially in younger women. However, Dr. Patterson may recommend more testing to gain additional insight.
He may perform a colposcopy, which uses a special magnifying device to examine the cervix more closely. If needed, a small biopsy is taken for lab analysis. Depending on the findings, he may propose monitoring, treating the abnormal cells, or completely removing them. And unlike 95% of other OBGYNs, Dr Patterson uses a brush technique to remove cells at the time of colposcopy for the biopsy to send to the lab. This technique is much less painful and causes much less bleeding than doing the cervical biopsies with a punch forceps that takes pieces in small chunks out of the cervix. Dr Patterson’s patients who need the colposcopy and biopsy are amazed how much more comfortable Dr Patterson’s technique is compared to other doctors because using the brush biopsy obtains just as good a specimen and is much less invasive!!!!!
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is typically the culprit behind abnormal cervical cells. This sexually transmitted infection is incredibly common; in fact, nearly everyone will have HPV at some point in their lifetime.
However, in some cases, a “high-risk” strain of HPV can cause persistent changes in cervical cells that need attention. If HPV is detected alongside abnormal cells, our team will talk with you about your risk level and the best course of action.
Other possible causes of abnormal cervical cells include inflammation, infection, or hormonal changes.
If follow-up testing confirms treatment is needed, there are several safe and effective options:
Dr. Patterson takes the time to walk you through your treatment options, ensuring you understand the benefits, and risks, of each as they pertain to your individual needs.
Regular Pap smears are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer. Our team typically recommends a Pap smear every three years, or more often if you have certain risk factors: Dr. Patterson creates an individualized screening plan based on your age, health history, and past results.
Knowing what your Pap test results mean and what to do next can take a lot of stress out of your visit. If you have questions about your results or you’re due for a woman’s wellness exam, contact Alan B. Patterson, MD, to schedule an appointment in our Coral Springs, Florida, office. Let us help you stay on top of your health.
