Eileen
A Pap Smear could run negative meaning every thing is fine. An abnormal Pap Smear could run anywhere from a + 1 to a + 4. A + 1 indicates minimal changes that needs to be watched carefully. A + 4 most definately indicates Cancer has developed it that area indicating the need for Surgical removal of the involved area. If the Cancer has spread which is called metastisized, then your Surgeon may indicated the need for Chemotherapy and/or Radiation Treatment. Some Surgeon's have opted to put in Radioactive Isotopes that would only be put in via the vagina while in the hospital and kept there for only several days at most. Keep in mind at worst, even if your Pap Smear came back a + 4, you have several options for treatment. Get yourself to an excellent Surgeon immediately if your running anything more then a + 1. A + 2 indicates more definate changes where as a + 3 shows the M.D. that you are shortly to develop Cancer. If you require Chemotherapy, I would suggest you go to an Oncologist or Radiation Treatment should be supervised by a Radiologist. As a Registered Nurse at present, when I was around 6 years old my Mother ran a +4 on her Pap Smear. One month later she had a total Hysterectomy with minor complications after the surgery. Mom lived forty years after the surgery and did very well. You may email me any further questions or concerns. Keep a positive attitude at all times which is helpful and my prayers are with you.