Discussions Here are the top 10 topics visitors are searching. Heart Disease 8. A Pap smear checks cells from the cervix for any evidence of pre-cancerous or cancerous changes. If an abnormality is detected early, the doctor can prescribe effective treatment before the problem becomes more serious.
Cervical dysplasia is a term used to describe abnormal cervical cells.
Cervical dysplasia is usually graded according to its severity, which can range from mild inflammation to pre-cancerous changes to localized cancer. Certain sexual behaviors are consistently associated with cervical dysplasia, such as becoming sexually active at an early age and having a number of different sexual partners. For those who are sexually active, using barrier methods of contraception, such as a condom or diaphragm, is associated with reduced risk of cervical dysplasia. Women with a low intake of vitamin A have an increased risk of abnormal Pap smear. These dietary associations do not necessarily indicate that these nutrients would be helpful if used as supplements.