Abnormal Cervical Screening
Stay ahead of any changes to your cervical cells.
Regular cervical screening tests (CSTs) are important for detecting human papillomavirus (HPV) and abnormal cervical changes early, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer. If you had an abnormal CST with your GP, please ask for a referral to Dr Ljiljana for further testing with a colposcopy and treatment if needed.
What is a Cervical Screening Test?
A cervical screening test (CST) is a simple procedure to check for changes in the cells of your cervix that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. Unlike the traditional Pap smear, a CST primarily tests for the presence of high-risk types of HPV, which can cause cervical cell changes.
If you are close to your period or have recently had sexual intercourse using a spermicide, lubricating jelly, or condom, the chemicals or menstruation may interfere with the test. For the most accurate results, aim to book your CST mid-cycle and avoid using such products for 24 hours before the test.
What Does an Abnormal CST Result Mean?
Receiving an abnormal result can be worrying, but it doesn’t mean you have cervical cancer. In many cases, abnormal results indicate the presence of HPV or cervical dysplasia that require monitoring or treatment.
Mild changes may resolve on their own, especially in younger women. However, moderate to severe abnormalities may need further testing or treatment to prevent the development of cervical cancer. Regular screenings and timely treatment are highly effective in preventing cervical cancer.
If your CST indicates abnormal changes or the presence of high-risk HPV, Dr Ljiljana may recommend a colposcopy.
What is a Colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a minimally invasive, even though for some women moderately uncomfortable, procedure performed in rooms. A colposcopy uses a special microscope to closely examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva. It is usually done if a cervical screening test shows abnormal test results, or if a patient has unexplained symptoms such as bleeding after intercourse or unusual vaginal discharge. The procedure can help identify conditions like cervical dysplasia, infections, or early-stage cervical cancer.
During a colposcopy, Dr Ljiljana may take a small biopsy (tissue sample) for further testing. A biopsy may cause minor cramping or discomfort after the procedure that is typically well-tolerated by patients.
If you have received an abnormal cervical screening test result, Dr Ljiljana can see you in a timely fashion for a colposcopy to determine the cause of your test results.
Cervical screening with Dr Ljiljana
Regular cervical screening tests are important for preventing serious conditions such as cervical cancer. Dr Ljiljana encourages you to stay proactive with your health and offers treatment options for abnormal CST results. If you have concerns about your cervical health, book an appointment with Dr Ljiljana.
What is Cervical Dysplasia?
Cervical dysplasia refers to the presence of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. While not cancerous, these abnormal cells can be precursors to cervical cancer if left untreated. Cervical dysplasia is usually caused by persistent high-risk HPV infection and is categorised into different levels of severity:
- Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (LSIL): Mild changes that often resolve on their own, especially in younger individuals.
- High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (HSIL): More significant cell changes that may require treatment to prevent progression to cervical cancer.
What Treatments Are Available for Cervical Dysplasia?
If cervical dysplasia is confirmed, Dr Ljiljana may recommend treatment to remove the abnormal cells and prevent them from becoming cancerous. One common treatment is LLETZ (large loop excision of the transformation zone), a minimally invasive short day-stay procedure.
During LLETZ, Dr Ljiljana uses a thin wire loop heated by an electric current to excise the abnormal cells. The procedure is typically performed as a short hospital day stay. Healing is generally straightforward, leaving healthy cervical tissue intact, and it takes generally 4 weeks to heal. Even though in that time some activities are limited, you can have a normal every day life. Dr Ljiljana will discuss this with you.
In cases of mild dysplasia, Dr Ljiljana may suggest monitoring the changes through repeat CSTs at regular intervals, as they sometimes resolve naturally.
Dr Ljiljana Difference
Dr Ljiljana knows that women tend to prioritise the needs of everyone else before their own, which means their health concerns are often overlooked. This is why Dr Ljiljana takes her time listening to you and understanding how you wish to be treated. She then applies her skills and expertise to provide the best possible care with positive outcomes.