A Pap smear is performed during a pelvic examination. After opening the vagina by placing a speculum into it, the doctor will scrape the entire surface of the cervix with a wooden spatula, brush or cotton swab. The doctor will then take a cell sample from the cervical canal with a cotton swab. A negative result usually indicates that the cervix is normal. A positive result does not prove that cervical cancer or dysplasia has been detected, only that the cells are abnormal and further evaluation is necessary.
Some inflammation is present.
This result may indicate a cervical o vaginal infection. An additional Pap smear may be taken within a few months to monitor the condition. Fortunately, at this stage SIL can almost always be treated successfully. A biopsy and a colposcopy should be done. A colposcopy is a painless procedure that allows the doctor to see the cervix magnified.