ABNORMAL PAP SMEARS

Dr. Taylor recommends that women have their first Pap test at age 21, or earlier if they are sexually active.

Pap tests are performed routinely during a pelvic examination to identify abnormal cells from the cervix and other reproductive organs. The doctor scrapes a small amount of tissue from the cervix for examination under a microscope.

Cervical cancer often has no symptoms until it has spread. A Pap test makes early detection possible, but problems other than cancer, such as precancerous cell changes or an infection of the cervix or vagina, can also cause an abnormal test result.

If you have an abnormal Pap test, Dr. Taylor may want to repeat the test later, and treat any infections in the meantime. If the abnormality persists, the doctor may order a biopsy and/or closer examination. Patients whose Pap smears contain cancerous cells are referred for more tests.