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Patient Education

Cervical Health / Abnormal Pap Smears

Thoughtful cervical screening and steady guidance through abnormal results, so you always know your next step.

Cervical health is one of the most preventable areas of women's medicine, and routine screening catches changes long before they become a concern. Dr. Golian coordinates your Pap smear and HPV testing and walks you calmly through any abnormal result as part of your broader women's preventive care in Los Angeles.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

Cervical changes are usually silent and found only through screening, but tell Dr. Golian if you notice any of the following.
  • Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
  • Unusual or persistent vaginal discharge
  • Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
  • Heavier or longer menstrual bleeding than usual
  • Bleeding after menopause

Causes & Risk Factors

Most abnormal Pap results trace back to HPV, a common virus your body often clears on its own.
  • Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains
  • Smoking, which lowers the cervix's ability to clear HPV
  • A weakened immune system or certain medications
  • Going long stretches without screening
  • Early onset of sexual activity or multiple partners over time

How Dr. Golian Manages Cervical Health

Dr. Golian orders your Pap smear and HPV co-testing on the schedule that fits your age and history, then reviews every result with you directly. An abnormal Pap rarely means cancer; most often it signals minor cell changes that warrant either a repeat test or closer evaluation.

When results call for it, she arranges colposcopy and coordinates promptly with gynecology and subspecialists, keeping your care connected through seamless referral and follow-up. You'll never be left wondering what the next step is.

Staying Ahead Through Prevention

Regular screening, HPV vaccination where appropriate, and not smoking are the most powerful tools for protecting your cervical health. Dr. Golian folds this into your annual comprehensive physical so prevention happens naturally, without you having to track every interval yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Does an abnormal Pap smear mean I have cervical cancer?
No. An abnormal result most often reflects minor cell changes or an HPV infection, not cancer. It simply tells us to look a little closer, often with a repeat test or further evaluation.
2How often do I need a Pap smear?
It depends on your age, history, and whether HPV testing is done alongside it. Many women are screened every three to five years, and Dr. Golian will set the right interval for you and track it as part of your preventive care.
3What happens if my result comes back abnormal?
Dr. Golian reviews the result with you personally and explains what it means in plain terms. Depending on the finding, she may recommend a repeat Pap, HPV testing, or a colposcopy, and she coordinates any specialist care directly.
4Can Dr. Golian perform the Pap smear in her office?
Yes. Pap smears are ordered and coordinated through the practice, and Dr. Golian manages the results and any follow-up so your care stays in one place.
5Should I still be screened if I've had the HPV vaccine?
Yes. The HPV vaccine greatly lowers your risk but does not replace routine screening, so continued Pap and HPV testing remains an important part of cervical cancer prevention.

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Stay Ahead of Cervical Health & Abnormal Pap Smears

Let Dr. Golian coordinate your screening and guide you calmly through any result with care that stays personal.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on this site is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this site does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance. If this is an emergency, call 911. Mentions of medications, devices, or procedures are informational and not endorsements. Full medical disclaimer.

†Some listed indications involve investigational/off-label use. Learn more.