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Follow up after an abnormal cervical screening result
If your screening test shows HPV, you may not need any treatment as your body usually clears HPV by itself. But you may need further tests or treatment. This depends on the type of HPV found and whether your test was done with a swab or a cervical sample. You may need to have:
- a cervical sample test (previously called a smear) to look for any cell changes, or
- a colposcopy (see below) to check if you need any treatment.
Cervical sample results
What happens if the cervical sample test finds cell changes depends on the nature of the changes.
Mild changes
Your results may show mild changes called atypical squamous cells of unknown significance (ASC-US) or low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL). These often go away by themselves. Your healthcare provider will discuss whether you need a repeat test in a year or a referral for a colposcopy.
Moderate to severe (high-grade) changes (HSIL)
If you have moderate to severe changes called high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), you will need a colposcopy. This does not mean you have cancer, and most cell changes can be successfully treated without needing surgery.
Cancer
If your results show any changes that suggest cervical cancer, you will be referred to a specialist. The sooner this is treated, the better the chances of success.
Possible further tests
Colposcopy
Your cervix is the opening to your uterus (womb) at the top of your vagina. A colposcopy is a procedure used to examine your cervix using a colposcope. It is done if your cervical sample shows cell changes. A colposcope is an instrument similar to a microscope.
A colposcopy is done as an outpatients procedure. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes, and you can go home afterwards.
Cone biopsy
If your results show more serious changes or if they are not clear, your doctor will advise you to have a cone biopsy. This is a minor surgical procedure done during a colposcopy. The surgeon removes a cone-shaped piece of the cervix that contains abnormal cells.
The sample is them sent to the laboratory to be looked at under a microscope.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Health Information and Services – Results of your HPV test
More information about what the results of your HPV test, cervical sample or colposcopy mean.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed January 2025.
SourcesReview key: HICES-20461
