Abnormal cells found during a pap smear can be caused by a number of things. Some of these may be serious, but most abnormal pap smears indicate only a temporary and mild problem.
Non-Medical Causes
An abnormal pap smear result can sometimes be caused by non-medical factors like recently having had sex or inflammation caused by simple irritation, according to the American Pregnancy Association (APA).
Infection
Some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause an abnormal pap smear. According to the APA, these include human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes and trichomoniasis.
Considerations
It is important to remember that, even though some STDs can trigger an abnormal pap smear, a pap smear cannot be used to diagnose these conditions or to directly detect HPV.
HPV
Many abnormal pap smears are the result of infection with HPV. Infection with HPV can lead to changes of various types in the cells of the cervix.
Dysplasia
Dysplasia is a general term for abnormal cells. The APA reports that dysplasia sometimes indicates precancerous cells.
Significance
An abnormal pap smear is not a diagnosis of any particular condition. According to WomensHealth.gov, most abnormalities are not serious, but a doctor often recommends further testing.
Tags: abnormal smear, abnormal smears
