Cervical abnormalities
What are cervical abnormalities? If a cervical screening test (smear test) finds abnormal cells in your cervix, treatment to remove these cells may be recommended as sometimes if left untreated the cells can become cancerous. What happens I have abnormal cervical cells? Abnormal cells will need to be removed from the cervix to prevent them from potentially becoming cancerous. It is impo
What it is
Cervical abnormalities range from low-grade HPV-driven changes (CIN 1) through high-grade pre-cancer (CIN 2/3) to invasive cancer. Most low-grade changes resolve spontaneously; high-grade changes need treatment but are not cancer. Diagnosis is by colposcopy with directed biopsy; treatment - typically LLETZ under local anaesthetic - removes the abnormal zone in a single 10-minute visit.
When this is relevant
- Abnormal smear result (any grade) or persistent high-risk HPV.
- Post-coital or intermenstrual bleeding lasting more than 4 weeks.
- Visible cervical lesion on routine examination.
- Persistent watery, blood-stained or offensive discharge.
- Follow-up after previous LLETZ or cone biopsy treatment.
How we investigate
BSCCP-accredited colposcopy with acetic acid and Lugol's iodine, targeted biopsy where indicated, HPV co-test. Histology results typically within 7-10 working days, discussed with you by phone or follow-up consultation.
Options at The Vesey
- Surveillance - low-grade changes often regress; repeat colposcopy and HPV test at agreed intervals.
- LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) - outpatient excision under local anaesthetic for confirmed CIN 2/3.
- Cone biopsy - day-case under GA for selected cases needing wider excision.
- Test-of-cure - HPV + cytology at 6 months post-treatment per UK guidance.
- Onward gynae-oncology referral - direct consultant pathway for any invasive disease.
Frequently asked questions
What does CIN 1, CIN 2 or CIN 3 mean?
CIN stands for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and describes pre-cancerous cell changes. CIN 1 is mild and often resolves on its own. CIN 2 is moderate and monitored or treated. CIN 3 is severe and nearly always treated. None of these grades is cancer, but high-grade changes need prompt attention.
How long does LLETZ treatment take?
The LLETZ procedure itself takes about 10 minutes under local anaesthetic in the outpatient clinic. Most patients can go home the same day and return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
Will LLETZ treatment affect my fertility?
A single LLETZ procedure removes a small amount of cervical tissue and does not usually affect fertility. Women who need repeated LLETZ procedures may have a slightly increased risk of preterm birth. Your consultant will discuss the balance of risks and benefits if you have not yet completed your family.
What happens after LLETZ treatment?
You can expect some light bleeding and discharge for 2–4 weeks. Histology results from the removed tissue are usually available within 7–10 days. A test-of-cure (smear plus HPV test) is carried out at 6 months after treatment, in line with UK guidance.
Private consultation at The Vesey
From £90 (Private GP) · Specialist from £260 · No GP referral required · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Book an appointment
When to book
Book this week if you have had an abnormal smear, persistent post-coital bleeding, or want a private colposcopy to accelerate the diagnostic workup.
Cost and pathway
Colposcopy with biopsy from £650. LLETZ treatment under local anaesthetic from £950 all-inclusive (consultation, procedure, histology, written report).
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our gynaecology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.88/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
View our gynaecology services →
Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727