Abnormal cells on the cervix can be detected during a smear test. Women are encouraged to have regular smear tests as this allows doctors to pick up early changes (abnormalities) in the cells of the cervix.

Many women feel anxious when they are told after a smear test that they have abnormal cells on their cervix. They often assume that this means cancer. But in fact there are many other causes for abnormal cells on a smear test, including infections and taking hormone treatments.

Another common cause of abnormal cells is a condition known as CIN. CIN is not a cancer but may develop into cancer in some women and so is often described as 'pre-cancerous' changes. The initials CIN stand for cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (dyskaryosis is another word used to describe these abnormal cells).

When the cells are looked at under a microscope they are divided into three types: CIN 1, CIN 2 and CIN 3.

The abnormalities in CIN 1 are quite minor and will often disappear of their own accord without requiring any treatment. The risk of CIN 1 becoming cancerous is considered to be very small. Doctors therefore advise that the smear test be repeated in six months. If changes in the cervix continue, then further treatment may be suggested.

In CIN 2 and 3 the abnormal cells cover more of the cervix and are more likely to develop into cancer if treatment is not given, although this often takes many years. In this situation it is likely that the doctor will suggest some form of treatment to remove the abnormal cells.

The treatment for CIN is usually very simple and can often be done as an out-patient. Treatments include laser therapy, cryotherapy (freezing the cells) or cold coagulation (removing the cells using heat). Other treatments are also available.