Hi there and thanks for the post

It can be a worry to find out you have abnormal cells following cervical screening and understandable to have some questions.

The important thing to remember about the cancer screening programmes is that they are about preventing cancer by picking up abnormality at an early stage.

In cervical screening this involves checking the sample for HPV and if that is present to then check for abnormal cells. If abnormal cells are found you are then called to colposcopy where the cervix and any abnormal areas can be examined closely.

The type and severity of the abnormal cells are usually confirmed by a further biopsy carried out in colposcopy. Abnormal cells in the cervix tend to be CIN or CGIN which we have more information about on the website. CIN and CGIN are both considered pre cancerous cells that if left undetected or go untreated may turn into cancer over time.

Depending on the type and severity of the cells found they will either be removed by a treatment such as LLETZ or monitored as some low grade changes often resolve by themselves without needing treatment.

It is rare for cervical cancer to be found during screening, especially if women make sure they attend for regular screening and any follow up. However if it is found through screening it is often at an early stage where it can be successfully treated.

The colposcopy clinic will explain everything to you at your appointment and what else may need to happen in your situation.

I hope the appointment goes well for you.

Take care

Naomi