Analysis
The smear tests and self-test kits are analysed for HPV in a laboratory.
If this virus is present, the smear test will also immediately be analysed for abnormal cells. This cell analysis is the only way to know whether further examination is needed by a gynaecologist.
The self-test kit only tests for HPV and not for abnormal cells. If HPV is found, you will still need to make an appointment for a smear test at a GP practice so that an analysis can be made for abnormal cells.
Result
You will receive a letter with the results within 4 weeks of having the smear test or sending the self-test kit. The following results are possible:
No HPV
If HPV is not found, this means that you do not have an increased risk of cervical cancer. No further analysis or examination is needed. You can simply participate in the cervical screening the next time you receive an invitation.
HPV is found, but no abnormal cells
No abnormal cells have been found. This means that there are no indications for cervical cancer or an early stage of cervical cancer. HPV was, however, found. The body’s immune system usually gets rid of this virus within 2 years. If this does not happen, the cells in your cervix can change. That is why it is important that you have another smear test conducted after 12 months. An analysis will then take place to check whether your cervical cells are still healthy.
HPV and abnormal cells
As abnormal cells were found, it is good to undergo further examination by a gynaecologist. Your GP will give you a referral latter te make an appointment with a gynaecologist in the hospital. The gynaecologist will investigate whether further treatment is needed.
Inadequate test result
The smear test could not be analysed properly. This could be because there were too few cells or because there was too much blood in the smear test. This means that a new smear test is needed. You should make an appointment with your GP for approximately 6 weeks after your initial smear test.
Frequently asked questions
How is the smear test analysed?
The smear test is sent to a laboratory. There, it is tested for the human papillomavirus (HPV). If HPV is detected on the smear test the same smear test will also immediately be analysed for abnormal cells.
HPV is a virus that can cause cervical cancer in the long term. The body’s immune system usually gets rid of the virus, but sometimes it doesn’t manage to do this. This can result in the generation of abnormal cells, which can lead to cervical cancer in the long term.
How is the self-test kit analysed?
The self-test kit only tests for HPV and not for abnormal cells. If HPV is found, you will still need to make an appointment for a smear test at a GP practice so that an analysis can be made for abnormal cells. The smear test will be free of charge when you use the results letter with barcode stickers.
When will I receive the results?
You will receive a letter with the results within 4 weeks.
The smear test results: You and your GP will receive the results of the smear test.
The self-test kit results: Only you will receive the results. The GP will not receive the results for privacy reasons and because you are the person who requested the screening.
What has changed in the referral schedule?
Previously, we referred everyone who had HPV and abnormal cells to the gynaecologist. Now we also look at what kind of HPV you have. Do you only have a moderately severe HPV type and also only mild abnormalities in your cells? Then you no longer need to visit the gynaecologist, but a control smear at the GP is sufficient.
What has changed in the assessment of the smear for the cervical cancer health screening?
When investigating HPV (Human Papillomavirus), we distinguish between HPV types with a high risk of cervical cancer and HPV types with a moderate risk of cervical cancer.
The further investigation (control smear at the GP or referral to the gynaecologist) depends on the HPV type found in combination with the assessment of the cells.
The term of the control smear at the general practice has changed from 6 months to 12 months.
What can I do if I am found to have HPV and I want a check sooner than 12 months?
A previous check is not necessary. The term of 12 months is safe. If you would like to have a smear test sooner, you can discuss this with your GP. He can indicate whether a smear test is necessary on indication. This falls outside the population screening for cervical cancer. You must pay the costs yourself.
I recently participated and have just been referred to the gynecologist with slightly abnormal cells. Does that follow-up examination at the gynecologist still make sense? Or should I also have a control smear made?
No, we advise you to make an appointment for a control smear in 6 months. This advice is based on your result.
Did my GP also receive the results?
Yes, the GP has also received your results if you have had a smear taken. If you have used a self-sampling kit, the GP will not receive your results.
If you want to know more about the results of your Pap smear, it is best to contact your doctor.
Why does the result letter not state which HPV type or Pap class I had?
To keep the result letter clear and understandable for everyone, it only contains the referral advice: do you need to see the gynaecologist, have a control smear in a year's time or nothing? If you would like more information about your results, please contact our information line or your GP.
