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Warning-sign checks

Abnormal pap test: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to emergency care for uncontrolled bleeding, fainting, severe weakness, confusion, difficulty breathing, or severe pain.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical advice for new heavy bleeding, severe pelvic pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, particularly after a cervical biopsy or treatment.

    These symptoms need urgent assessment regardless of your Pap result.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine follow-up whenever you receive an abnormal or unsatisfactory result.

    Contact the clinic if you do not understand the result, have not been given a follow-up plan, or cannot attend the recommended appointment.

    Do not assume that no news means no further testing is needed.

    Book an appointment if you develop bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, ongoing unusual discharge, or persistent pelvic pain.

    These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer, but they should be assessed.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Abnormal pap test. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.