Cervical cancer

Research continues for ways to improve the accuracy of the cervical smear test, including using new computer programs, but it is too soon to say whether these will be helpful. Tests are also being devised to detect the presence of HPV which may help in the diagnosis of early cervical cancer.

Cervical smear test results

If you do not hear from the doctor you should call to check the result of your smear test; the receptionist should be able to tell you how long it will take to come back.

You will be called by your doctor in one of the following situations:

• A repeat smear test is advised - because the original test had an inadequate number of cells on it, or there was an infection in the cervix at the time of the smear.
• A 'borderline' result is reported. The laboratory has found some abnormal cells, but not enough to cause great concern, although a repeat test in 6 months will be advised.
• Abnormal cells ('cervical dysplasia') have been found and you need further investigation. Cervical dysplasia means that some degree of transformation in a cell or cells in the epithelium (the tissue that covers the cervix) has occurred. Other procedures are necessary to confirm smear test abnormalities and all abnormal smear tests should have some form of follow-up. This may include a "watch and wait" approach with re-testing in several months or, depending on the degree of abnormality, a colposcopy (examination of the vagina and cervix using a colposcope, a modified microscope that views the cervix under magnification) and/or biopsy (a procedure that removes a small sample of tissue from one or more areas of the cervix for examination by a pathologist). Remember, an abnormal cervical smear test result does not mean you have cervical cancer.