GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

Abnormal Smear Tests

Most women between the ages of 25 and 65 should have regular smear tests (at least every three years). A smear is a sample of cells taken from the cervix. It is examined under the microscope to detect any abnormal cells. If any abnormal cells are detected then a women will be referred for a colposcopy examination.

A smear test is a rough guide as to what abnormal cells may be present on the cervix, but a colposcopy together with a biopsy is the way of accurately determining the situation. Many women will find that after a colposcopy examination their cervix is found to be entirely normal. Another group of women will find that their cervix contains mildly abnormal cells and it is usually possible to monitor these cells without requiring further treatment. Some women will find the abnormal cells detected by their smear test and colposcopy are so called "pre cancerous cells". These are cells which may turn into cancer over a period of time if they are left untreated. It is this group of patients who require treatment, usually under local anaesthetic to remove the abnormal cells.