A Pap smear screens for cervical cancer, and sometimes, test results can come back abnormal. Correctly following up and treating an abnormal Pap smear safeguards your reproductive health. Count on board-certified gynecologist Ninoutchka Dejean, MD, at Boca Women's Health & Pembroke Pines Gynecology for high-quality reliable follow-up services, such as a repeat Pap test, in-office colposcopy, or a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). Find out more by calling the office in Boca Raton, Florida, or booking a visit online.
An abnormal Pap smear is a result that suggests the need for more investigation by Dr. Dejean. Abnormal Pap smear results don’t automatically mean you have cervical cancer.
In the majority of cases, the results may indicate the presence of inflammation, infection, or cellular irregularities that may go away naturally in time.
Dr. Dejean reviews your results with you. She may use terms you’ve never heard to discuss your results. For example, the most common abnormal result is a finding of “atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance,” also known as ASC-US.
This sounds scary, but it simply means the Pap test has detected changes in your cervical cells. In many cases, the follow up may be as simple as a repeat Pap smear.
In some instances, however, a Pap test may reveal the presence of precancerous cells. If this is the case, expect Dr. Dejean to recommend a more powerful test, known as a colposcopy, to evaluate the cells of your cervix.
Dr. Dejean provides the colposcopy procedure right in the Boca Women's Health’s office. Similar to your Pap test, you recline on an exam table with your feet in stirrups. Dr. Dejean inserts a speculum and uses a slim magnifying device, called a colposcope, to examine your cervix.
To closely inspect your tissues, she uses a vinegar-like liquid, which reveals the presence of abnormal cells. You may feel a mild tingling sensation when she applies the solution.
If she discovers cells that need investigating, Dr. Dejean takes a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of tissue. She sends this to a lab for testing.
Your colposcopy is over quickly. Afterward, you can expect a bit of mild spotting and cramps if you had a biopsy.
With certain types of cellular changes, Dr. Dejean recommends a LEEP procedure, a quick treatment performed in the office.
During a LEEP, Dr. Dejean uses an electrified wire loop to remove the unhealthy tissue, while leaving your healthy cervical tissue in place.
If you’ve had an abnormal Pap smear, call Boca Women's Health today or book your consultation online to discuss follow-up services with Dr. Dejean.
We see patients in Boca Raton and Pembroke Pines. Book online or call us today to schedule your appointment.
