Abnormal Pap Smear

An abnormal pap smear result means that some of the cells on the cervix looked different from normal cells. Approximately 1 in 10 pap smears are abnormal.

It is normal to feel anxious or worried if you have just found out that your pap smear result is abnormal. However, the probability of serious conditions like cancer is low as pap smear is designed to detect changes before they become cancer.

At PWSC, our doctors have many years of experience dealing with investigation and treatment of abnormal pap smears. They are accredited by the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Obstetrics & Gynecology (RANZCOG) and Colposcopy Quality Improvement Program (C-QuIP).

Dr Jason Chin is a specialist colposcopist and the lead clinician at the LLETZ treatment clinic with the Western Australia Gynecologic Cancer Services at King Edward Memorial Hospital.

Dr Jason Chin now offers priority colposcopy appointments. Dr Chin is able to see all colposcopy patients within 1-2 weeks.

What is a Colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a close examination of a woman’s cervix using a special microscope called a colposcope.

You may have been referred for a colposcopy for any of the following reasons:

• After an abnormal pap smear result
• An abnormal appearing area on the cervix, vagina, vulva
• Bleeding from the cervix, especially bleeding after sex

How is a Colposcopy Done?

During the colposcopy, a speculum will be inserted into the vagina very much like during a pap smear test. A repeat pap smear is often done at the same time. A weak acidic solution is applied to the cervix to highlight any abnormal areas. A small sample of tissue (biopsy) may be obtained from the affected area.

At no time does the colposcopy enter the body. The examination usually takes 5-10 minutes to complete.

Most women do not experience any pain. Although you may have some discomfort from having the speculum in the vagina. You may experience minor cramps during the biopsy. You may wish to take some painkillers a few hours before hand.

Post Colposcopy/ Biopsy

It is common to have a little spotting/bleeding for a few days after a colposcopy and biopsy.

You will be able to resume most usual activities. However, you should avoid intercourse, tampons, swimming for a few days till the discharges or spotting settles.

Changes to the National Cervical Screening Program

From May 2017, the two yearly pap smear test will be replaced by a five year Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) test which is more effective than the pap smear. The pap smear will no longer be offered by the National Screening Program.

The evidence-based changes to the National Cervical Screening Program, together with HPV vaccination, will reduce the number of cervical cancers by at least an additional 15%. The new HPV test program can save more lives and women will need fewer tests than the current pap smear test program

Women ages 25 to 74 years will be invited every 5 years to have a primary HPV test. Depending on the HPV results, you will either be:

• Re-invited to have another screening in 5 years
• Invited to have another HPV test in 12 months
• Referred directly for colposcopy