Introduction
A Pap Test Showed Cell Changes in Your Cervix
You're probably reading this booklet because your health care
provider told you that your recent
Pap test
(sometimes called a
Pap smear) showed
cell
changes in your
cervix. Although it is
quite common to feel uneasy about your Pap test results, it may
comfort you to know that each year more than 3 million women
receive similar results.
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"I didn't understand my results at first--
and a part of me didn't want to
understand. But I knew this was
important . . . and in the end,
everything turned out fine."
MARLENE, AGE 45
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Not All Cell Changes Are Cancer
The good news is that almost always, women with cell changes do
not have
cancer
of the cervix (also called cervical cancer). But it is
important that you protect your health by getting the follow-up
tests and care that your health care provider suggests.
Cell changes do not mean that you will get cancer of the cervix.
And because your cell changes were found, simple tests or
treatments can help you. When cell changes are found and treated
early, almost all women can avoid getting cervical cancer.
Getting Your Questions Answered
So what is the next step? What do your results mean? Does this
mean you need treatment and, if so, what kind? This booklet helps
answer these questions and discusses:
- Types of changes in your cervix
- Common tests and treatments
- How to find the support and resources you need
You will probably have other questions, or you might be
concerned about the choices you may need to make. These
reactions are normal. But understanding your Pap test results--and
what to expect when the results are not normal--can help you
make informed decisions and plan your next steps.
A dictionary explains terms that may be
new to you. These terms will appear in bold.
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