Why Did My Pap smear Come Back Abnormal? What North Shore Patients Need to Know About HPV and Colposcopy?

Getting a call that your Pap smear came back “abnormal” can feel unsettling — but an abnormal result does not mean you have cervical cancer . In fact, most abnormal Pap results are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) , a very common infection that most people will encounter at some point in their lives. For patients across the North Shore, understanding what your results mean — and what happens next — can help ease anxiety and guide you toward the right follow up care.

What Does an Abnormal Pap smear Actually Mean?

A Pap smear looks for changes in the cells of the cervix. When your provider says your Pap is abnormal, it means the test found:

• Inflammation or infection
• Mild cell changes (often caused by HPV)
• Precancerous changes (called dysplasia)
• Rarely, more serious abnormalities

Most abnormal results fall into the low grade category, meaning the changes are minor and often resolve on their own.

HPV: The Most Common Cause of Abnormal Pap Results

For North Shore patients, HPV is the leading reason Pap tests come back abnormal. Here’s what you should know:

• HPV is extremely common — nearly 80% of people will have it at some point.
• Most HPV infections clear naturally within 1–2 years.
• Only certain high risk strains (like HPV 16 and 18) can cause cervical precancer.
• HPV is usually silent, meaning you won’t have symptoms.

An abnormal Pap does not mean you did anything wrong. HPV is a normal part of human health, and routine screening is the best way to catch changes early.

Why Your Provider May Recommend a Colposcopy

If your Pap smear shows certain abnormalities — or if your HPV test is positive for high risk strains — your provider may recommend a colposcopy.

What is a Colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a closer, more detailed exam of the cervix using a special magnifying device. It allows your clinician to:

• Look for areas of abnormal cells
• Apply a gentle solution to highlight changes
• Take small biopsies if needed

Colposcopy is routinely done at our North Reading office and typically takes 10–15 minutes. To learn more, visit https://www.novaobgyn.com/services/colposcopy/

Why It’s Important

Colposcopy helps determine:

• Whether the abnormal cells are mild or more advanced
• Whether treatment is needed
• Whether simple monitoring is enough

For many patients, colposcopy confirms that the changes are low grade and safe to watch, rather than treat immediately.

Common Reasons Your Pap May Be Abnormal

North Shore patients often ask, “Why did this happen?” Here are the most frequent causes:

• HPV infection (most common)
• Recent sexual activity or irritation
• Yeast or bacterial infections
• Hormonal changes, especially around menopause
• Immune system changes
• Smoking, which affects cervical cell health

Our providers will help determine whether the abnormality is related to HPV or another benign cause.

What Happens After a Colposcopy?

Your next steps depend on the biopsy results:

• Normal or mild changes: Routine monitoring with repeat Pap/HPV testing
• Moderate changes: Closer follow up or treatment to remove abnormal cells
• Severe changes: Treatment to prevent progression to cervical cancer

Most patients fall into the “monitoring” category — meaning no treatment is needed.

How North Shore Patients Can Protect Their Cervical Health

• Stay consistent with Pap and HPV screening: Routine screening is the most effective way to catch changes early.
• Consider HPV vaccination: The vaccine protects against the strains most likely to cause cervical cancer.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking makes it harder for the body to clear HPV.
• Follow up on abnormal results promptly: Early evaluation prevents small issues from becoming bigger ones.

Papsmear and colposcopy care at Nova Women’s Health in North Reading, MA

An abnormal Pap smear is common, and in most cases, it simply means your provider needs a closer look. Under the expert care of Dr. Anju Nayar, M.D. , board-certified OB/GYN, and Dr. Jenniffer Shields, M.D., our team at Nova Women’s Health in North Reading, MA help you protect your cervical health with confidence.

Schedule Your Consultation in North Reading, MA

If you are looking out for best cervical care options, Take the first step today by visiting Nova Women’s Health, or call our North Reading office directly at (978) 664-5979 to get started.