What results mean Nation Aug 07
8/28/07
10:54 AM
Page 1
What is a colposcopy?
What your
cervical smear test
results mean...
This is a simple examination that allows
the doctor to decide if you need
treatment.
A colposcopy involves looking at the
cervix with an instrument called a
colposcope. The colposcope does not
touch you or go inside you; it just magnifies the area
so that any abnormal areas can be seen more clearly.
A colposcopy can be done safely during pregnancy
and should not be painful. However, it may be
uncomfortable because of the time taken to look at
the cervix. A cervical biopsy may also be taken
during this visit.
Cervical screening saves lives
Doctor’s contact details
What is a cervical biopsy?
A cervical biopsy involves removing a sample of
tissue from the cervix for examination under a
microscope. The biopsy allows for a sample of cells to
be tested so they can be assessed more accurately.
What if I need treatment?
The results of most smear
tests are normal. The earlier
a change is found, the easier
it is to treat.
You can get more information on
www.icsp.ie
P/LF/003 Rev C
AViD Graphic Design 061 328046
This can usually be carried out under local
anaesthetic in the clinic where you had the
colposcopy. Your specialist will advise you of your
choices.
What results mean Nation Aug 07
8/28/07
10:54 AM
What your results mean
Page 2
Understanding the results of your smear test
Screening saves lives
The cervical smear test can pick up changes in the cells of the
cervix (neck of the womb) before any problems develop. The
earlier cell changes are found, the easier they are to treat.
Most smear results are normal. Even a result that is not
normal is unlikely to mean that you have cancer.
Do not be alarmed if you are recalled. The result could be
due to an infection or minor cell changes that may or may
not need treatment.
The possible results of
your test
What does this mean?
What should you do?
No abnormality detected
The cervical cells appear to be
normal.
Have regular smear tests every three
years between the ages of 25 and 44.
Have regular smear tests every five
years between the ages of 45 and 60.
Unsatisfactory or
inadequate
or
Broken or damaged slide
These could mean:
• The laboratory could not read the
smear; or
• Not enough cells were collected; or
• Blood or pus cells were present.
You will be advised to have a repeat
smear three months after your last test.
The person who took your smear test
will let you know if you need treatment.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
This is a virus that affects the cells of
the cervix. HPV can cause cell
changes. These may simply disappear
with time.
You will be advised to have a repeat
smear test in six months to check the
cells again.
‘Mild changes’ or ‘low grade’
This means the test has found some
minor changes in the cells of the
cervix. These will often return to
normal on their own. They do not
mean that you have cancer.
You will be advised to have a repeat
smear test in six months to check the
cells again. If the changes persist, the
person who took your smear test may
send you for another test called a
colposcopy.
‘Moderate to severe changes’ or
‘high grade’
These changes in the cells are less
likely to return to normal by
themselves and need to be
investigated.
You will be referred for another test
called a colposcopy to decide whether
you need treatment.
‘Not normal’ results
Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) is the name given to
abnormal cells on the cervix. CIN can be described as CIN 1,
CIN 2 and CIN 3. In order, these mean that ‘mild’ (low grade),
‘moderate’ or ‘severe’ (high grade) changes are present.
Dyskaryosis is another term used to describe changes to the
cervical cells. There can be mild dyskaryosis, moderate
dyskaryosis or severe dyskaryosis.
If you have any questions about your result, contact your
smeartaker (the person who took your smear).
When should I have my next smear?
Your smeartaker will advise you when to have your next
smear.
If you have any unusual or irregular vaginal bleeding,
spotting or discharge, do not wait for your smear test.
Contact your doctor immediately.
When is the best time during my menstrual
cycle to have a smear test?
The best time to attend for your cervical smear test is midcycle, that is, 10 to 14 days after the first day of your period
(if you are having periods).
It is best not to have sexual intercourse in the 24 hours
before your smear test.
Not normal result
There are different
categories of change
(see middle column)