An abnormal pap smear results can mean that your cervical health is compromised. Signs of abnormality could mean anything from HPV to a simple infection and even to a serious condition like cervical cancer. At Horizons Health & Wellness, we address abnormal paps to help you get the testing and treatment you deserve. Our methods include a colposcopy for diagnostic purposes and Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedures for abnormal cell extraction. If you have received an abnormal result from your pap smear, we urge you to get in contact with our team and receive the help you need today.
Colposcopy After Abnormal Paps
A colposcopy is often recommended after an abnormal pap smear or gynecologic exam. This procedure uses a special microscope (called a colposcope) to search for abnormal cells, polyps, genital warts, or other lesions on the vagina, cervix, or vulva. During this procedure, you will be positioned exactly as you would be for a pelvic exam. Usually, a speculum will be placed in your vagina to allow visualization of your cervix, just like in a normal pelvic exam. Dr. Aslami will wipe the area with a vinegar solution that makes abnormal areas more visible, then use the colposcope to find the abnormal cells. Biopsy of the abnormal areas can be performed quickly, with no anesthesia, and virtually no downtime. Results are typically available within a few days. We offer Nitronox™ (“laughing gas”) for patients who need this procedure and yet are concerned about possible pain.
How Is a Colposcopy Different From a PAP Smear?
A pap smear is a routine test performed by inserting a small swab into your cervix during a pelvic exam to assess the health of your cervix. If the pap smear is abnormal, a colposcopy may be recommended. This frequently is recommended if high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is detected, or if highly abnormal cells are found on a pap smear. Colposcopy is an exam of your cervix using a microscope; it may also include a biopsy if visible abnormalities are found with the microscope.
Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)
LEEP stands for Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure. LEEP is a procedure that uses a small wire loop to remove abnormal cells from your cervix and prevent cervical cancer. Dr. Aslami may recommend LEEP surgery after abnormal cells are found during a pap test, colposcopy, and/or biopsy. Abnormal cells could be benign growths (polyps), or they could be precancerous. If left untreated, precancerous cells may develop into cervical cancer. A LEEP appointment is typically 30 minutes. The procedure itself is only 5minutes, but additional time is needed to allow for the numbing medicine to work and the equipment to be set up. You’ll be positioned as you would be for a pap test. Once Dr. Aslami can see your cervix, she will apply numbing medicine to it. After a 15-20 minute waiting period, she will use a small energized loop-shaped device to remove the abnormal cells. Finally, your blood vessels in the area will be sealed to prevent bleeding. The extracted cells will be sent to a lab for testing.
Addressing Abnormal Paps in Bridgewater, MA
Your health is our first priority. At Horizons Health & Wellness, you will meet with our team to make sure we supply you with the proper care you seek. If you’re ready to get started, fill out the form below or contact us at (508) 807-0634. We look forward to hearing from you.