HPV & Abnormal Pap Smear

The Ob-Gyn Center in Las Vegas offers compassionate, expert care for women with abnormal Pap smear or HPV results. Our OB/GYN team helps you understand your results, provides necessary follow-up testing, and supports your long-term cervical health and peace of mind.

What Is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear (Pap test) is a screening used to detect abnormal cells on the cervix. It’s typically performed during a routine pelvic exam and helps identify early changes before they become cancerous. Many women also receive an HPV test at the same time, especially those aged 30 and older.

What Is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection. Some strains are considered high-risk because they can cause cervical cell changes over time. Most HPV infections clear naturally within 1–2 years, particularly in younger women, but persistent infections may require medical follow-up.

What Does an Abnormal Pap Smear Mean?

An abnormal Pap result means that some cervical cells appear different than normal. It doesn’t necessarily indicate cancer but signals that additional testing may be needed. Common result categories include:

ASC-US: Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance
LSIL: Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (mild changes)
HSIL: High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (moderate to severe changes)
AGC: Atypical glandular cells (less common, may require further testing)

Even high-grade results can often be managed successfully when detected early through regular screening.

Common Reasons for an Abnormal Pap Smear

HPV infection (especially high-risk types)
Inflammation or infection
Recent sexual activity
Menopause-related thinning of cervical tissue
Early precancerous changes that require monitoring

Your provider will help determine the cause and develop an appropriate follow-up plan.

Next Steps After an Abnormal Pap or Positive HPV Test

Depending on your results, your provider may recommend:

Repeat Pap or HPV test: To monitor changes, usually in 6–12 months.
Colposcopy: A closer look at the cervix using a magnifying scope. A biopsy may be taken if abnormalities are found.
Cervical biopsy results:
- CIN 1: Mild changes, often monitored without treatment
- CIN 2 or CIN 3: Moderate to severe changes, may require treatment to remove abnormal cells

Treatment Options for Precancerous Cervical Changes

If treatment is needed, your OB/GYN will review safe and effective options such as:

Cryotherapy: Freezes and destroys abnormal cells
LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure): Removes abnormal tissue using a thin electrical loop
Cold knife cone biopsy: Removes a cone-shaped section of cervical tissue, typically for more advanced cell changes

These treatments are usually performed in-office or on an outpatient basis and involve minimal downtime.

Preventing Cervical Changes

While HPV is common, you can reduce your risk of cervical cell abnormalities with these preventive measures:

Get regular Pap smears and HPV testing as recommended
Receive the HPV vaccine (available up to age 45)
Use condoms and limit number of sexual partners to reduce HPV exposure
Avoid smoking, which weakens cervical tissue and immune response

Routine screening and early detection remain the best defense against cervical cancer.