Abnormal Pap

Gynecology & Obstetrics in Manhattan, KS

Abnormal Pap services offered in Manhattan, KS

An abnormal Pap smear means that there are some atypical cells in your cervix — but, in most cases, it doesn’t mean you have cervical cancer. At The Women's Health Group, P.A., the team of highly-trained experts encourages patients in and around the East and West areas of Manhattan, Kansas, to reach out if they have any questions concerning an abnormal Pap or other reproductive health conditions. Call the office or request an appointment online today to learn more about an abnormal Pap and how it can affect your health.

Abnormal Pap Q&A

What is a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is used to collect cells from the cervix during a woman's annual wellness exam. Pap smears should be taken every 2-3 years depending on a woman's past medical history or risk of cervical cancer.

What does an abnormal Pap smear detect?

The cells collected during an abnormal Pap smear are sent to a lab to be evaluated. Abnormal cells found during a Pap smear may indicate a serious health condition like cervical dysplasia or cancer of the cervix. The abnormal cells may also be indicative of a sexually transmitted disease.

Should your results determine an abnormal Pap smear, The Women's Health Group, P.A. team may choose to take another Pap smear or perform a colposcopy to determine what the abnormal cells may represent.

What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is performed to allow the vulva, vagina, and cervix to be examined. A colposcope allows your doctor to see any visible abnormalities. The procedure often involves excising a small amount of tissue, known as a biopsy, from the cervix to determine the cause of an abnormal Pap.

A colposcopy procedure normally takes less than 15 to 30 minutes. It’s performed in The Women's Health Group, P.A. office and you can immediately resume your daily activities. You don’t need any type of anesthesia and can leave the office as soon as the procedure is over.

What causes an abnormal Pap?

Abnormal cell growth on the cervix can be caused by a sexually transmitted disease or an infection. In some cases, cells may appear to be abnormal, but when a second Pap smear or colposcopy is performed, no abnormalities are found.

Abnormal cells can be caused by yeast infections or urinary tract infections if you don’t practice good hygiene. The presence of bacteria can disrupt the delicate pH balance in the vagina causing abnormal cell growth or a mucusy discharge.

High levels of stress can also throw off the pH levels within the body, making you more susceptible to yeast infections or other reproductive health problems.

To schedule a Pap smear or to discuss abnormal Pap results with a trusted expert, call The Women's Health Group, P.A. office or request an appointment online today.