Smear test question

[DSM]

I had a smear a while back and there was some abnormal result, and I was asked to come back for another. I did, and have received the same results - abnormal.

All the letter says is that I need to go for another smear.. Is this the right procedure? What do they do, just keep doing more up to a point? When is that point? Shouldn't they do something other than another smear if two have come back abnormal?

[DSM]

Anyone?

[Flisspaps]

If they're mild abnormalities, then another smear will just monitor what is happening.

If you keep getting them, they'll probably invite you for a colposcopy, which is a bit more detailed screening, but if you still have mild changes, you'll probably continue having frequent smears to monitor.

[Whatalotofpiffle]

I think it depends on the level of abnormality. I had an abnormal result which was moderate to severe, then a biopsy and finally a procedure to remove cells. Mild changes sometimes require more repeat smears. I think it is likely that you have mild changes.

[DSM]

So how often does one have to kept having these mild changes before a colposcopy?

[EuroShaggleton]

I think it differs from area to area.

Some areas are introducing a new protocol where the presence of the HPV virus in the smear sample is used to determine who needs follow up.

[DSM]

Okay.. So should I just keep going for these repeat smears and not worry about it?

I guess my concern was that this letter was identical to the last letter - no mention that the last rest was already a repeat test.

[neverlookback]

I would ring and ask, or go for this next one and speak to the nurse about it.
It must be a standard letter but I would try to speak to someone and get them to explain
Good luck