Current guidelines recommend women undergo a Pap smear every 2 years to detect any early changes which may lead to later developing cervical cancer. A finding of an abnormal Pap smear result needs specialist follow up with a Gynaecologist. A colposcopy is then performed where the cervix is examined under a magnifying telescope and dyes are placed on the cervix which highlight abnormal cells.
Based on these findings the correct treatment can then be discussed which may simply involve another check in 6 months or a small procedure to remove any abnormal cervical tissue.