It can take up to several weeks to receive test results from a Pap smear. The cell sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis by a cytotechnologist, who is trained to detect abnormal cells. The cytotechnologist works with a physician known as a pathologist (expert in cellular abnormalities) to examine the cells under a microscope. The pathologist then makes a diagnosis as to the status of the cells (e.g. normal, precancerous, cancerous).

If the cell sample has been preserved using the newer liquid technique, a technician at the laboratory will be able to prepare a slide that is cleaner and easier to interpret than a traditional sample. In addition, new computer–automated readers are being used to analyze Pap smears. The technology uses a microscope that feeds an image to a computer. The image is then analyzed for the presence of abnormal cells.

The potential findings of a Pap smear are classified according to the Bethesda System, and include:

• Normal. The test is negative, and no abnormal cells are found. No further treatment will be necessary until the next pelvic examination.
  
  
• Atypical squamous cells (ASC). Squamous cells are the thin, flat cells that grow on the cervix’s surface. This diagnosis indicates the presence of slightly abnormal cells that might be the result of infection, inflammation or a precancerous condition (cervical dysplasia). A second Pap smear or another test may be performed to help pinpoint the cause of the abnormal cells.
  

  

• Atypical glandular cells (AGC). Glandular cells produce mucus and grow in the center of the opening of the cervix and within the lining of the uterus. Further testing is necessary to determine whether the cells are cancerous.
  
  
• Endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS). Cells that are likely precancerous and are found in the glandular tissue. Patients with endocervical AIS may require additional diagnostic testing.
  
  
• Squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL). Indicates that the cells seen on the Pap smear are consistent with cervical dysplasia, a precancerous condition. Diagnostic testing is likely after such a result. Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion indicates early changes that are considered to be mild abnormalities. High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion indicates more pronounced changes in the size and shape of the abnormal cells, and a greater likelihood of cervical cancer. 

A negative result means that abnormal cells were not found. A positive result means that abnormal cells were found, but does not necessarily indicate cancer. The only way to confirm a diagnosis is to remove a sample of tissue (biopsy) and send it to a laboratory for analysis.

In addition to cancer, abnormal cells may be the result of inflammation caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes virus, yeast infection or other infections.