What are the risk factors for cervical dysplasia?

Cervical dysplasia describes abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. Persistent infection with a high-risk type of human papillomavirus is the central risk factor. Many HPV infections clear, but changes are more likely when infection remains for a long time. Smoking can make it harder for cervical cells to recover. A weakened immune system, including from some illnesses or medicines, may also reduce the body's ability to control HPV. A previous abnormal cervical screening result means follow-up should be taken seriously, but it does not mean cancer is present. Cervical dysplasia often causes no symptoms.

Attend cervical screening when invited and complete any repeat test, colposcopy or treatment recommended after an abnormal result. Ask about HPV vaccination if you are unsure whether it is suitable for you. If you smoke, support to stop can benefit cervical health as well as general health. Keep copies of screening results and tell the clinician about immune-suppressing medicines or conditions so follow-up can be planned appropriately.

Contact a clinician if you have bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, unusual discharge or persistent pelvic pain; these symptoms need assessment even though cervical dysplasia itself may be symptom-free. Do not wait for symptoms to attend a scheduled screening appointment or follow-up after an abnormal result.

Ask what your screening result means, whether HPV was detected, when follow-up is due, and whether colposcopy is recommended. You can also ask how vaccination, smoking cessation and immune health affect your personal prevention and monitoring plan.