Pap smear

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-13-2008
Pap smear
1
Thu, 08-14-2008 - 6:22am

Hi All

I was wondering how often ladies pap smears test results come back as abnormal cells?

To some this may seem strange that I am asking all of you instead of a Doctor. I have heard from the doctor that it is nothing to worry about but its not something to dismiss either, we should get regular check ups to keep an eye on the growth and change of these "abnormal cells"

You see I was told by some one close to me that its common to have abnormal cells and there is nothing to be concerned about, both her and her daughter had abnormal cells. But then Another person very dear to me said that this is not common and I must definitely keep a close eye on these cells.

So my question is ladies, How often do our pap smears tests results come back as abnormal cells??

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-26-2006
In reply to: msladysam
Thu, 08-14-2008 - 7:09pm
It is quite common. There are varying degrees of abnormality, so a low grade abnormality can be caused by unidentified inflammation, a vaginal infection, etc. It doesn't necessarily mean that there is anything to be concerned about. In many cases, if it is HPV causing the abnormality, then the immune system will fight off the symptoms in due course, but as long as regular pap smears are conducted, then the risk of cervical cancer developing is really low.