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Your test result can mean that you have cervical dysplasia. It can mean that you have an infection. In some cases, it may simply mean that the Pap test was not readable and it needs to be repeated. Ask your doctor to explain exactly what your results mean.

Most of the time, abnormal cells detected by a Pap test will disappear on their own without any treatment. In some cases, however, these abnormal cells may need to be treated.

If you hear that you have had an abnormal Pap test, you may need to get it repeated. Or your health provider may send you for a colposcopy. In some cases you may need a biopsy or the abnormal cells may need to be removed. In a small number of cases, more extensive investigation and treatment may be required.

The vast majority of women who have abnormal Pap test results and who have follow-up tests and/or treatment will never get cancer of the cervix. Having regular Pap tests helps protect women from developing cervical cancer.