If the Pap test shows inflammation or atrophy, what happens next?

The main purpose of the Pap test is to prevent cervical cancer. We are, therefore, primarily interested in detecting any atypical cells.

Often, an examination under the microscope may diagnose inflammations from several microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, trichomoniasis, etc). These findings simply help your doctor to prescribe a treatment if they find it necessary.

Also, in menopausal women, test results frequently show atrophic lesions of the epithelium. This is due to the drop in estrogen levels during menopause.

Sometimes, due to severe inflammation or atrophy of the epithelium, the results from the cytological lab mention that it is not possible to correctly evaluate the test, and that it needs to be epeated. In such a case, treatment is prescribed, and after a certain period the Pap test is repeated, or an HPV test is also done.