A routine Pap smear may reveal abnormal cells, usually caused by HPV, on a woman’s cervix. This condition, called cervical dysplasia, may lead to cancer. A loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) removes abnormal cells from the cervix.

Most women know to get regular pap smears, but many don't know what to make of the results when they come back abnormal. Getting back abnormal pap results can create a lot of anxiety around the fear of having cervical cancer. However, abnormal results usually do not indicate cancer.

Pap smears are often performed as part of a routine gynecological examination. This screening test allows gynecologists to detect abnormal cells that can be indicative of cervical cancer or cervical dysplasia, which is a precancerous condition.

Abnormal Pap smears and yeast infections are two common findings during routine gynecologic exams, according to the Encyclopedia of Family Health. Although both are common, they can be a source of consternation for women.