Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri AydınObstetrician & Gynaecologist
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Abnormal smear result

An abnormal smear or HPV result usually does not mean cancer. It indicates that there may be cell changes in the cervix that need a closer look. The next step depends on the type of result, your age, your HPV status and your previous screening results.

Written by Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri Aydın
Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, November 2026

What do the terms in the report mean?

ASC-US

Atypical cells of undetermined significance. The most common result, and it usually resolves on its own.

LSIL

Low-grade changes; usually a temporary effect of HPV infection.

ASC-H

Atypical cells in which a high-grade change cannot be excluded; colposcopy is needed.

HSIL

High-grade changes; a precancerous lesion is likely, and colposcopy and often treatment are needed.

AGC

Atypia in the glandular cells of the cervical canal; colposcopy and, if needed, assessment of the uterine lining are carried out.

Next steps

  • After an ASC-US or LSIL result, an HPV test is done. If HPV is positive, especially type 16 or 18, colposcopy is usually recommended. If HPV is negative, a repeat test after a short interval may be sufficient.
  • In women under 25, HPV infection is very common and usually temporary, so low-grade results are generally followed with a repeat test after one year.
  • For ASC-H, HSIL and AGC results, colposcopy is performed regardless of age. In some cases diagnosis and treatment can be combined in the same session with LEEP.

The same result may be managed differently in different people, because the decision is based on the risk calculated from the current test together with your previous screening results.

Special situations

In pregnancy, an abnormal smear is assessed in a similar way to non-pregnant women; colposcopy can be performed safely when needed, and treatment is usually postponed until after delivery. After the menopause, assessment follows the same rules.

Frequently asked questions

My smear is abnormal – do I have cancer?

Most abnormal results are not cancer. The result shows that the cervix needs a more detailed examination.

My HPV test is negative but my smear shows ASC-US – what should I do?

In this case the probability of a precancerous lesion is very low; a check-up at a longer interval is usually recommended.

Can an abnormal result return to normal on its own?

Yes. Many ASC-US and LSIL results in particular return to normal on their own as the immune system clears HPV.

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Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri Aydın sees patients at Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital, Istanbul. International patients are supported by the hospital's International Patient Services Center.

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The information on this page is for general guidance only; the right diagnosis and treatment for you are decided after a consultation. Last updated: November 2026.

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