Cervical dysplasia occurs when abnormal cells grow on the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that leads to the vagina. Cervical dysplasia is not cancer, but it can sometimes develop into precancerous or cancerous lesions if not treated. The most common sexually transmitted virus in the United States is human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical dysplasia.
It is a group of viruses that can infect the genitals, mouth, throat, and anus through the skin and mucous membranes. Many strains of HPV are low risk and cause genital warts, while others are high risk and cause cervical dysplasia and cancer. During sexual activity, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex, HPV can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. The majority of people who are sexually active will get HPV at some point in their lives. However, some infections persist and can lead to cervical dysplasia.
Other factors that may increase the risk of cervical dysplasia include:
Having a weakened immune system due to illness or medication
Smoking cigarettes
Having multiple sexual partners or a partner with multiple sexual partners
Becoming sexually active at a young age
Having an HPV exposure at a young age
A Pap test, which collects cells from the cervix and examines them for abnormalities, is often used to detect cervical dysplasia, which usually does not cause any symptoms. A person with cervical dysplasia that has progressed to cervical cancer may experience symptoms such as:
Bleeding during or after sexual intercourse
Bleeding between menstrual periods or after menopause
Abnormal vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Cervical dysplasia is diagnosed by a Pap test, a colposcopy, and if necessary, a biopsy. By using a magnifying device, a colposcopy examines the cervix more closely and identifies abnormalities. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue from the cervix is removed and sent to a laboratory for further analysis.
Cervical dysplasia is classified based on how much of the epithelium, which covers the surface of the cervix, is affected by abnormal cells. It is called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and it ranges from one to three.
CIN 1: Mild dysplasia, affecting about one-third of the epithelium
CIN 2: Moderate dysplasia, affecting about one-third to two-thirds of the epithelium
CIN 3: Severe dysplasia, affecting more than two-thirds of the epithelium
The CIN 1 cervical dysplasia usually goes away on its own, but it still needs regular monitoring. The CIN 2 and 3 cervical dysplasia are more likely to lead to cancer.
The treatment of cervical dysplasia depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the person, and their reproductive plans. Treatment aims to eliminate or destroy the abnormal cells in order to prevent them from becoming cancerous. Common treatment options include:
Cryotherapy: A procedure that uses extreme cold to freeze and kill the abnormal cells
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP): A procedure that uses an electric wire loop to cut out the abnormal cells
Laser therapy: A procedure that uses a laser beam to vaporize the abnormal cells
Cone biopsy: A procedure that removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix that contains the abnormal cells
Aside from the fact that these procedures are usually performed in an outpatient setting, they can also cause some side effects such as bleeding, cramping, infection, or scarring. Before choosing a treatment, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider since some procedures may also affect fertility or pregnancy outcomes.
The best way to prevent cervical dysplasia and cancer is to protect yourself from HPV infection and get regular screening tests. Some of the preventive measures include:
The HPV vaccine can protect against the most common and harmful strains of HPV, including cervical dysplasia and cancer, and it is safe and effective. There are two or three doses of the vaccine, depending on the age of the person, and it is recommended for people aged 11 to 26, but it can be given to people as old as 45.
Using condoms or other barrier methods during sexual activity: Although condoms and other barrier methods can reduce the risk of getting HPV and other sexually transmitted infections, they are not entirely effective, as HPV can spread to skin not covered by the condom. Therefore, it is still important to get vaccinated and screened, even if you use condoms.
Regular Pap tests: If you get Pap tests, you will be able to detect cervical dysplasia and cancer earlier, when they are easier to treat. Pap tests are recommended for women between the ages of 21 and 65, with different intervals based on the age and the results of previous tests. If you experience any abnormal symptoms, please inform your healthcare provider.
HPV vaccination and screening can reduce your risk of cervical cancer and improve your quality of life by preventing cervical dysplasia.
