Abnormal Pap Test


	740 Ferst Drive Atlanta, GA 30332-0470 U.S.A 404-894-1420

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Abnormal Pap Test

There are many things that can cause an abnormal Pap Test Such As:

The sample does not show the cells clearly.
You have a mild infection that can be easily treated or will go away on its own.
You have HPV (human papillomavirus) infection (ASHA).

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a very common virus. It is passed from the skin of one person to another during sex. There are many types of HPV. Some types cause genital warts- bumps on the skin around the penis, vagina, or anus- that you can see. Warts can be removed, but they may grow back.

A few types of HPV can slowly lead to cancer of the cervix if they are not treated. These types do not cause warts or bumps that you can see or feel. This is why getting a Pap Test once a year is so important to your health. Most women who have HPV do not develop cancer, but some do. The good news is that cervical cancer can be cured if it is found and treated early (ASHA).

What happens if I have an abnormal Pap Smear?

It is hard to tell if you have a serious health problem from just one abnormal Pap result. Your doctor or nurse will probably want for you to come back in three to six months for another Pap Test. Most of the time, your follow-up Pap Test will be normal. Many things that cause an abnormal result will clear up on their own. Still, it is very important to follow-up with your doctor or nurse. Sometimes, an abnormal Pap result calls for different tests. The doctor or nurse may do a colposcopy, which is a close-up look at your cervix, using a special lighted microscope. A colposcopy is only a visual exam, so it will not hurt.

If the doctor or nurse detects anything that might lead to cancer, the next step may be to perform a biopsy, which will take a small piece of skin from your cervix and send it to a lab for testing. A biopsy feels like a pinch and can be uncomfortable.

Whether the plan is for a follow-up Pap Test, a colposcopy, or a biopsy, it is extremely important that you keep your appointment. Make sure that you understand the next step and why the nurse practitioner chose it. Do not be afraid to ask questions. We are here to help you and to help you feel as comfortable as possible.

Source: American Social Health Association (ASHA)

Women's Clinic Hours of operation:

Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

Phone: 404 894-1434
Fax: 404 894-8241

Location:
Joseph Brown Whitehead Building, 740 Ferst Drive, Room 208

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Appointment Procedures

Women's Clinic

How to make an appointment for this clinic only:
Please call the Women's clinic directly at 404 894-1434 during regular hours. At the time of the appointment, please go directly to the Women's Clinic to sign in 15 minutes before the appointment time.

How to cancel an appointment for this clinic only:

Please give 24 hours notice of cancellation. If the appointment is for the Consultation Clinic, 24 hrs notice is required or students will be billed $30.

Note:
These are general Women's Clinic appointment procedures. More specific procedures may apply. Please visit the detailed services list for the most accurate information.