Cervical screening
What it means if your cervical screening test detected HPV or showed cell changes, and how Mr Orabi's BSCCP-accredited colposcopy clinic follows that up.
Understanding
A high-risk HPV result, or evidence of cell changes on a smear, sounds alarming but is rarely an emergency. Most cell changes are very early-stage and either resolve on their own or are easily treated.
Mr Orabi runs a dedicated BSCCP-recognised colposcopy service. The aim is always to get you a clear answer, an explanation, and where treatment is needed, a same-visit procedure under local anaesthetic.
For a fuller patient pathway, see our Cervical Screening & Colposcopy page.
Common symptoms
An abnormal cervical screening (smear) letter, usually with no symptoms at all
Occasionally: bleeding between periods or after sex
Unusual vaginal discharge (rare)
Diagnosis
Approach
A structured workup, often within one appointment, to identify the cause and shape a clear treatment plan.
HPV (human papillomavirus) test on the screening sample
If HPV is found, the same sample is checked for cell changes
Colposcopy: a closer look at the cervix using a magnifying instrument
Cervical biopsy where any unusual area is identified
Treatment
Treatment is built around your symptoms, preferences and any other conditions. Options often combine medication, hormonal treatments and where appropriate, surgery.
No treatment for HPV alone, just earlier repeat screening at 12 months
Surveillance colposcopy if low-grade changes are seen
LLETZ (large loop excision) to remove abnormal cells where appropriate
Follow-up screening at 6 months after treatment, then yearly until clear
Related procedures
Screening
A short test to check the health of your cervix, including HPV testing and a sample of the cervical cells. Quick, painless and one of the most effective cancer-prevention tests available.
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Cervical treatment
A close-up look at the cervix using a magnifying instrument, with the option of treating abnormal cells in the same visit using a heated wire loop (LLETZ).
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Colposcopy clinic
A small tissue sample taken from the cervix, usually during a colposcopy. Quick, well tolerated, and the most reliable way to clarify what abnormal cells actually are.
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Your consultation
A first appointment is unhurried. We work through your history, your symptoms and your priorities, and where helpful arrange examination, imaging or further tests at the same visit. You leave with a clear plan and time to ask any question you bring.