Abnormal Pap Smear Results: What They Mean and What Happens Next

Hearing “your Pap smear was abnormal” can feel scary — but an abnormal Pap doesn’t mean cancer. At Be. Women’s Health in Frisco, TX, we guide you through every step so you understand exactly what comes next.

A Pap smear checks cervical cells for early changes caused by HPV. An abnormal result simply means some cells look a little different.

Here’s what the results may mean:

ASC-US:
Slightly abnormal, often caused by inflammation or HPV. Many resolve on their own.

LSIL or HSIL:
These are low-grade or high-grade changes. They DO NOT mean cancer — but they do mean follow-up is important.

HPV positive:
A very common finding. Most HPV infections clear within 1–2 years.

Next steps may include:
✔ Repeat Pap in 1 year
✔ HPV testing
✔ Colposcopy (a closer look at the cervix)
✔ Treating underlying infections
✔ Monitoring cell changes over time

Most abnormal Paps never become dangerous — especially when monitored early.

Your cervix is resilient. And you’re not navigating this alone.

If you’ve had an abnormal Pap, schedule a follow-up with Be. Women’s Health today.