Precancerous Changes of the Cervix - Cervical Dysplasia

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Many times, cervical dysplasia can be stopped in its early stage by early detection. Cervical dysplasia can be detected by a pelvic examination that includes a Pap smear. Women should start to have Pap smears and pelvic exams when they reach the age of 16 or as soon as they become sexually active.

A woman can lower her risk for developing cervical dysplasia by taking the following steps:

A woman should ask her sexual partners about their sexual histories, so that those who seem to be high-risk can be avoided.

Identification of early warning signs of cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer is also important. A woman should see her healthcare provider and may need to be treated if she has any of the following signs or symptoms:

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

With early detection, treatment, and close follow-up care, nearly all cervical dysplasia can be cured. If untreated, the mild to moderate stages of dysplasia often grow more severe. Up to 30% to 50% of carcinoma in situ, or CIS, cases progress to invasive cancer of the cervix.

What are the risks to others?

Cervical dysplasia is not contagious and does not pose a risk to others. Sexually transmitted diseases associated with cervical dysplasia, such as Chlamydia trachomatis\. Sexually transmitted disease refers to any contagious disease transmitted from one person to another during sexual contact. ',CAPTION,'Chlamydia');" onmouseout="return nd();">chlamydia and human papilloma virus, are contagious.