Abnormal Cervical Smear
An abnormal cervical smear result sounds worrying, but it is common and rarely means cancer — here is what it means and what happens next.
An abnormal cervical smear (abnormal cervical cytology) means your screening test has picked up changes in the cells on the surface of the cervix, often linked to HPV, a common virus.
An abnormal result is common and usually does not mean cancer — most changes are minor or pre-cancerous cell changes that can be monitored or treated, often before they have any chance to cause harm.
Symptoms of abnormal cervical smear.
An abnormal smear itself usually causes no symptoms — it is picked up on routine screening. The signs below are not caused by the abnormal result, but they are worth mentioning to a clinician if you notice them.
Why it happens.
Cell changes on the cervix can have several underlying causes, and most are not serious. The terms dyskaryosis or CIN describe the changes themselves, graded low or high, rather than a separate cause.
Don't wait for it to settle.
Early assessment helps you get the right treatment sooner. See a specialist if:
How an abnormal smear is assessed at Bridge House Clinic
Mr Mohamed Mehasseb, Consultant Gynaecological Surgeon and Oncologist, will review your smear result and history, then explain whether the next step is repeat testing, monitoring, or colposcopy — a closer examination of the cervix using a magnifying scope, sometimes with a small biopsy to confirm what the cells are doing.
How abnormal cervical smear is treated.
What happens next depends on what the colposcopy and any biopsy show. Outcomes are generally very good when changes are picked up early. The right plan varies from person to person.
Many low-grade changes are simply watched with repeat smears or HPV testing, as the body often clears the virus and the cells return to normal on their own. Fees are confirmed at consultation.
A closer look at the cervix with a magnifying scope, sometimes a small biopsy may be taken to understand the changes and guide what to do next. Fees are confirmed at consultation.
Where higher-grade changes are confirmed, abnormal cells can be removed using a minor procedure such as LLETZ. Whether this is needed depends entirely on the findings. Fees are confirmed at consultation.
You are seen and assessed by Mr Mohamed Mehasseb, a Consultant Gynaecological Surgeon and Oncologist, throughout your care.
Self-referral is welcome, so you can arrange an appointment without waiting for a referral or a long queue.
The clinic offers colposcopy and the ongoing management of an abnormal smear, so much of your assessment can happen in one place.
Bridge House Clinic is in Rossett, between Chester and Wrexham, with easy access for patients across the area.
Does an abnormal smear mean I have cancer? +
In almost all cases, no. An abnormal smear is common and usually shows minor or pre-cancerous cell changes that can be monitored or treated, often before they have any chance to cause harm. Your consultant will explain what your specific result means.
What is HPV and why does it matter? +
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus that most people come into contact with at some point. It is often linked to cell changes on the cervix. In many people the body clears it naturally, which is why some changes simply need monitoring.
What is colposcopy and will it hurt? +
Colposcopy is a closer look at the cervix using a magnifying scope. It is similar to having a smear and is usually well tolerated. A small biopsy is sometimes taken; the consultant will explain everything before anything is done.
Will I definitely need treatment? +
Not necessarily. Many low-grade changes are watched with repeat testing rather than treated. Treatment, such as removing abnormal cells, is only recommended when the findings call for it, and your consultant will discuss this with you.
Can I refer myself, or do I need a GP letter? +
You can refer yourself directly to Bridge House Clinic. A GP letter is welcome but not required.
How much does it cost? +
The gynaecology consultation fee is £200 (follow-up £150). Colposcopy and any treatment fees are confirmed at your consultation, so you have clear information before going ahead.
Don't put up with it.
Book an assessment with a consultant and get a clear picture — and a plan.