What are cervical cell changes?
Written by Dr. Specialist Stine Andreassen
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, PhD in Obstetrics in 2015 and more than 15 years of clinical practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Cell changes in the cervix (also called cervical dysplasia) are abnormal changes in the cells on the surface of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
These changes are not cancer. In most cases, they are mild and go away on their own. However, some cell changes can develop into cervical cancer over many years if they are not monitored or treated. Cervical screening programs are designed to detect these changes early – long before cancer develops.
What causes cell changes in the cervix?
The most common cause of cell changes in the cervix is infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus that is transmitted through sexual contact. Most sexually active people will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives. In most cases, the immune system clears the virus naturally within 1–2 years. However, in some women, HPV persist. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix over time.
What are the symptoms of cell changes in the cervix?
Cell changes in the cervix usually cause no symptoms. This is why regular cervical screening (Pap smear or HPV testing) is so important — it can detect changes before you feel anything. In more advanced cases, symptoms may include bleeding after intercourse, bleeding between periods, unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding after menopause. These symptoms do not automatically mean cancer, but they should be evaluated by a doctor.
How are cell changes in the cervix diagnosed?
Cell changes in the cervix are detected through cervical screening tests. Screening may include HPV testing and/or a Pap smear (to examine cervical cells under a microscope). If screening results show abnormalities, you may be referred for further evaluation by colposcopy (a closer examination of the cervix using a special microscope) and small biopsies.
How are cell changes in the cervix treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the cell changes. Low-grade changes often go away on their own. In these cases, monitoring with repeat testing is usually recommended. High-grade changes are usually treated to prevent progression to cancer. Treatment is performed by removing the abnormal cells with a minor procedure (cone biopsy). This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and are generally safe and effective. After treatment, regular follow-up is important to ensure the abnormal cells do not return.
Why should I get vaccinated to prevent cell changes in the cervix?
The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that cause most cell changes in the cervix and cervical cancers. It significantly reduces the risk of developing high-grade cell changes and cervical cancer.
What is the likelihood of developing cervical cancer if I have cell changes in the cervix?
The risk depends on the type and severity of the cell changes. Low-grade changes often resolve on their own and carry a very low risk of progressing to cancer. High-grade changes have a higher risk of developing into cancer if left untreated — but this usually happens slowly over many years. When cell changes in the cervix are detected through screening and properly monitored or treated, the risk of developing cervical cancer is very low.
Regular screening and appropriate follow-up are highly effective at preventing cervical cancer.
Related resources
What is a pap smear?
Read more about pelvic exams
Learn more about vaginal speculums
Learn more about the Vega vaginal speculum
FAQ – Cervical cell changes
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Cervical cell changes are abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. These changes are often detected during cervical screening tests, such as a Pap smear. Most cervical cell changes are not cancer, but some may require monitoring or treatment to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
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Most cervical cell changes are associated with persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can affect the cells of the cervix over time.
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No. Most cervical cell changes are not cancer. In many cases, mild cell changes resolve on their own without treatment. However, some abnormal cell changes may develop into cervical cancer if left untreated, which is why regular screening is important.
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Cervical cell changes are usually detected through cervical screening tests, such as a Pap smear or HPV test. These tests can identify abnormal cells before symptoms develop.
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In most cases, cervical cell changes do not cause symptoms. This is why routine cervical screening is important. When symptoms occur, they may be related to other cervical conditions and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
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Yes. Treatment depends on the severity of the changes and the individual's clinical situation. Some cell changes only require monitoring, while others may require procedures to remove the affected cells.