Gynecologist in Pittsburgh, PA
HPV and Abnormal Pap Smears
Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh's medical team of McMurray, PA can help when you have abnormal Pap smear results due to atypical cells.
We also know that abnormal Pap smears can occur if you have been exposed to a virus called HPV. This causes cells to change abnormally. If you test positive for the virus, we’ll need to bring you into the office for further evaluation of your cervix. We may set you up for a colposcopy, which is a microscopic evaluation of the cervix.
If you’re ready to get started with the best OBGYN in Pittsburgh, Advanced Women’s Care is ready to help you. Contact us to schedule your first appointment today. We can’t wait to meet you.
Pittsburgh’s Leading Women’s Health Center
Pap Smear HPV Test: How It Works
At Advanced Women’s Care, we use a Pap smear test to screen for HPV. The sample is taken from the cervix and sent to a laboratory. In this lab, technicians will look for any abnormal cells or changes in the cervical cells caused by HPV.
Here's how it works:
- Step 1: Your doctor will take a sample of cells from the cervix using a brush or a spatula.
- Step 2: The sample will be sent to our laboratory for testing.
- Step 3: If the lab test results indicate that you have HPV, your doctor may recommend further testing or a colposcopy.
If you do test positive for HPV, there are treatment options available. Your doctor can recommend the Gardasil 9 vaccine or procedures that may help reduce the risk of complications from HPV.
At Advanced Women’s Care, we are here to provide you with the best care and support possible. We understand that it can be overwhelming to receive an abnormal Pap smear result due to HPV. That’s why our experienced medical team is here to answer your questions and provide you with the best treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does someone get HPV?
HPV is a virus acquired through sexual contact. It is very prevalent: 85% of women have this virus. You could have been exposed as long ago as 10 years. There is no way of determining how long ago you were exposed.
Does HPV cause warts?
Certain types of the HPV virus cause warts. You may or may not have those types. During your appointment at Advanced Women’s Care, we can explain which types of HPV cause warts and if you could have them. We can also discuss treatment options for any warts present.
Are abnormal Pap smears common?
There are a number of other potential causes for an abnormal Pap smear, including:
- Cervical cancer
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Trichomoniasis
- Bacterial vaginosis
Other rarer causes such as endometrial or vaginal infection can also lead to an abnormal Pap test result.
How can I get started with the top gynecologist near me?
At Advanced Women’s Care of Pittsburgh, we want the process of getting started with us to be as smooth as possible. Just contact our office, and our friendly and knowledgeable staff will get you scheduled quickly and easily.