HPV & Abnormal Pap Smear

An abnormal Pap smear can feel unsettling, but it does not automatically mean cancer. In many cases, results show mild cell changes, often linked to human papillomavirus (HPV), that simply need monitoring or follow-up. At Complete Care ObGyn, our OB/GYN team in Henderson, NV helps you understand your results and take the next right step for your cervical health.

What Is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a screening tool used during a routine pelvic exam to look for abnormal cells on the cervix. The goal is to detect early changes before they can develop into cervical cancer. Pap testing is commonly included as part of your regular preventive care, such as a well-woman visit.

For many patients, Pap testing is performed alongside HPV testing, especially after age 30. Combining these tests can help guide how often screening is needed and whether follow-up is recommended.

What Is HPV?

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. Some HPV types are considered high-risk because they can cause cervical cell changes that may lead to cancer over time. The reassuring news is that most HPV infections clear on their own within one to two years, especially in younger patients. When HPV persists, your provider may recommend closer monitoring or additional testing.

If you want to learn more about prevention and long-term cervical wellness, you may find our resource on HPV and cervical health helpful.

What Does an Abnormal Pap Smear Mean?

Abnormal Pap results can fall into several categories, including:

• 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 and may require additional testing)

These results describe how cervical cells look under a microscope. Many changes are temporary and resolve without treatment, but follow-up is important to confirm the changes improve and to identify the small number of cases that may need treatment.

Common Reasons for an Abnormal Pap Smear

There are several reasons a Pap smear may come back abnormal, including:

• HPV infection, especially high-risk types
• Inflammation or a recent infection
• Recent sexual activity
• Menopause-related thinning of cervical tissue

Hormonal changes can affect cervical and vaginal tissues over time. If you are in a transition stage, information on menopause or perimenopause may provide helpful context for symptoms and screening conversations.

Next Steps After an Abnormal Pap or Positive HPV Test

Your provider may recommend one or more of the following:

• Repeat Pap and or HPV testing to monitor changes over time, often in 6 to 12 months
• Colposcopy, which is a closer exam of the cervix using a special microscope, sometimes with a biopsy
• Biopsy results review to determine whether changes are mild and can be monitored or whether treatment is recommended

An abnormal result is a signal to follow up, not a conclusion. The plan is tailored to your results, age, and health history.

Treatment Options for Precancerous Cervical Changes

If follow-up testing shows changes that need treatment, your provider may discuss options such as:

• Cryotherapy to freeze abnormal cells
• LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) to remove abnormal tissue
• Cold knife cone biopsy in select situations for more advanced or concerning changes

These procedures are typically done in-office or as outpatient care, with guidance on recovery and next steps.

How to Protect Your Cervical Health

While HPV is common, there are practical steps that can reduce your risk of cervical changes and support long-term health:

• Keep up with Pap and HPV screening as recommended
• Ask about the HPV vaccine, which is available up to age 45 for many patients
• Use condoms to reduce HPV transmission risk
• Avoid smoking, which can affect the cervix’s ability to clear HPV

Vaginal comfort also matters, especially when hormonal changes contribute to dryness or irritation. If symptoms are affecting intimacy or daily comfort, our guide on vaginal dryness may be useful.

Schedule a Visit in Henderson, NV

If you have questions about HPV, an abnormal Pap smear, or recommended follow-up, our team is here to help with clear answers and supportive care.

Schedule an appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to review your results and plan your next steps.