How do we manage abnormal paps?
If you have an abnormal result on your pap smear, your doctor will may recommend you undergo colposcopy. Colposcopy is a procedure done in the office during which your doctor will look carefully at your cervix with a colposcope (a kind of microscope for the cervix). If any abnormal cells are seen, biopsies will be taken. The procedure takes 15-20 minutes and does not require any anesthesia. You may want to take 600-800 mg of ibuprofen before the procedure to help with cramping. If the biopsy is abnormal, the management may include simply repeating your pap in 4-6 months, cryotherapy (freezing of the abnormal cells on the cervix) or removal of the affected part of the cervix (a procedure called a LEEP or a cone). Your doctor will tell you what is the best choice for you after the biopsy results come back. You can also make some lifestyle changes that will help your body to clear the infection on its own. If you are currently a smoker, quitting may be enough to return your pap smear to n
