Hello Jilll, 

I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling concerned after receiving your cervical screening results back this week. 

Around 6 out of 100 women (6%) have an abnormal result after a cervical screening test. It means that there are some changes to the cells on the cervix. These changes are not cancer. The cells often go back to normal by themselves. But in some women, if not treated, these changes could develop into cancer in the future. 

As your results showed you have borderline or mild cell changes, the laboratory will have tested your sample for the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus. Most women have it at some point in their lives, and in most cases your body will get rid of the virus without you ever knowing you had it.

As your sample showed HPV is present this will be why you've been asked to attend for further tests. A colposcopy means looking very closely at the cervix using a specialised magnifying instrument called a colposcope. You can read more about this here. This test can show whether you need treatment for the abnormal cells. You can find out more about this here. 

I would try not to worry about this too much. If you think it might help you to speak to someone then you could call our team of nurses. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

I hope this helps. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator