Pap Smear During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Pap smear during pregnancy?

Hello Dr.
Chang, I am currently 9 months postpartum with my first child and I am pregnant again (less than a month along).
After giving birth to my first child, I had a Pap smear that returned abnormal results.
I was advised to follow up every 3-4 months, but the physician at the hospital where I delivered said that I cannot undergo further evaluation during my current pregnancy.
Dr.
Chang, is it true that I cannot have follow-up during pregnancy? The physician at that time did not explain what the abnormal results were, only stating that since I am under 30, there is an 80% chance of spontaneous resolution.
I only had a stable partner after getting married (2 years).
Thank you for your patient response, Dr.
Chang.

Xiao Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/29

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, it is recommended that you consult a gynecologist to explain the results of your Pap smear for proper assessment.
The results of Pap smear tests can have a higher margin of error during pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2016/07/29

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding Pap smears during pregnancy, especially considering your previous abnormal results. It’s understandable to have concerns about your health and the health of your unborn child, particularly after having an abnormal Pap smear in the past.

Firstly, it is important to understand what a Pap smear is. A Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer that involves collecting cells from the cervix to check for abnormalities. If your previous Pap smear results were abnormal, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor any changes.

Regarding your current pregnancy, it is generally safe to perform a Pap smear during pregnancy. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women continue to have Pap smears as part of their routine prenatal care, especially if they have a history of abnormal results. However, the timing of these tests can vary based on individual circumstances.
In your case, since you are currently pregnant, your healthcare provider may have opted to delay further testing until after your pregnancy. This is often due to the fact that pregnancy can cause changes in cervical cells, which may complicate the interpretation of the results. Additionally, some healthcare providers may prefer to wait until after childbirth to perform more invasive procedures, such as a colposcopy or biopsy, if needed.

It is also worth noting that many abnormal Pap smear results, especially in younger women, can resolve on their own without treatment. The statistic mentioned by your healthcare provider—that 80% of abnormal results in women under 30 may resolve spontaneously—is supported by research. However, this does not mean that follow-up is not necessary. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Given your history of an abnormal Pap smear, it is advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. You should express your concerns and ask for clarification regarding your previous results and the recommended follow-up plan. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable with the information provided, seeking a second opinion from another obstetrician or gynecologist may also be beneficial.

In summary, while it is generally safe to perform a Pap smear during pregnancy, your healthcare provider may choose to delay further testing until after delivery. It is crucial to stay informed about your health and to advocate for yourself, especially given your previous abnormal results. Make sure to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider and ensure that you have a clear understanding of your follow-up care plan.

Wishing you a healthy pregnancy and all the best for your upcoming delivery.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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