Can abnormal cells be treated?
Yes. A minor abnormal change often goes away by itself. This is why a repeat test after 3-12 months may be all that is needed. If the cells remain abnormal, or the changes are more marked, then treatment is offered. This will stop cancer from developing in the future. Treatment, if needed, is simple and virtually 100% effective. Some common questions about the cervical screening test How effective is the cervical screening test? The test is about 80% effective. This means that for every 10 women who would have developed cancer of the cervix, about 8 cases can be prevented. So, although it does not detect an abnormality every single time one occurs, overall it is a reliable test. I have never had sex. Do I need a cervical screening test? The test is recommended for all women – even if you have never had sex. However, the risk of getting cervical cancer is very low if you have never had sex. This is because the main cause of cervical cancer is a past infection with the human papillomavir
