|
Cervical Dysplasia
Cervical dysplasia means that there are changes in the size and shape of the cells of the cervix (opening of the womb). It is NOT cancer, but may develop into cancer in some cases. Cervical dysplasia is found when you have a Pap test. A nurse will call you with the results of your Pap test and tell you that some abnormal cells were found.
Causes
Cervical dysplasia is caused by a virus called human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is spread by sexual contact. Condoms will NOT prevent the spread of HPV because HPV is found on all genital tissue. HPV is common and many women are diagnosed with cervical dysplasia each year.
Risk Factors
Risk factors do not cause cervical dysplasia, but they do make it more likely to occur.
- Smoking, or being with people who smoke can increase your risk. Chemicals from cigarettes are carried in the blood stream to the cervix and can cause damage to the cells.
- Sexual Activity: If you became sexually active before the age of 16, or within 18 months of your first period you increase your risk of cervical dysplasia. At this age, the immune system (which helps fight infection) and the cervix are not fully mature.
- The number of partners: A lifetime number of partners greater than 3, or more than 1 partner in the previous year are considered risk factors as this increases the chances you have of getting HPV or an STD.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections(STI’s): A past history of sexually transmitted disease – eg. Herpes, chlamydia or trichomonas. These infections can weaken your immune system, or they may produce toxic by-products that make it easier for cervical dysplasia to occur.
- Poor Nutrition: A diet low in folate (a form of Vitamin B), and Vitamin A may increase your risk.
- Birth Control Pills DO NOT put you at risk for cervical dysplasia, BUT two strong risk factors, intercourse at an early age, and multiple sex partners may be more common among women who use the pill.
- Weakened Immune System: An illness or some medications can decrease the body’s ability to fight off infections. Pap Test: The main risk factor is NOT having routine Pap screening. Screening should begin at 18 years of age if you are sexually active, or within two years of your first sexual activity. At first you should have two Pap tests, one year apart.
If both of these are normal, you can then be screened every two years. There is no upper age limit when screening should be stopped. If you have had an abnormal Pap test in the past, are HIV positive or have other risk factors, you should continue to have a Pap test every year.
Treatment of Cervical Dysplasia
Treatment depends on the grade of dysplasia. Most cases of mild dysplasia call for a repeat Pap test in 6 months. This is because your immune system will fight off the infection 80% of the time. The 6 months time is needed so the cells of the cervix can grow back again and be available for testing.
If your Pap test shows moderate to severe dysplasia, or if you have two or more results showing mild dysplasia, you will be referred to a specialist to have a procedure called a colposcopy.This test lets the doctor have a closer look at the cervix, and take a small sample (biopsy) of the area that has the abnormal cells. Biopsy results will guide the appropriate method of treatment.
Most cases of cervical dysplasia are treated by laser which destroys the abnormal cells, and allows for healthy new cells to grow back.
Remember
If you have been diagnosed or treated for cervical dysplasia, it can come back. It is IMPORTANT that you continue to have a yearly Pap test to screen for dysplasia.
Contact: Mount Carmel Clinic nursing staff at 582-2311, if you have questions or concerns, or want to talk about this information.
Source: Mount Carmel Clinic |
