Glandular abnormality is much less common than a squamous abnormality. However, these are cancerous abnormalities.

If your report indicates CIN1, 2 or 3, it means you have cancerous cells. Carcinoma in Situ is a pre-invasive cancer.

The terms mentioned here are just to give you a brief idea of how to read you report. The next time you get your report, make your diagnosis and then match it with what your doctor interprets out of it.

If you have any doubts do not hesitate to ask your gynaec. And if need be do not stop from seeking a second opinion.

Also Read Never Too Young for Cervical Cancer

Pap Test Not 100% Accurate

Lastly you must remember that a Pap smear test is not exactly accurate.

There are chances that the test can miss out on certain abnormal cells due to reasons such as:

• Sample did not pick up cells from the abnormal area
• Menstrual discharge hid the abnormal cells in the sample

Therefore, do not miss your Pap tests. Repeating it on a regular basis will ensure that the abnormal cells are not missed.

(With inputs from Dr. Anjali Deshmukh, Pathologist from Anjali Pathology Laboratory, Mumbai)