Abnormal pap

I am 36 years old and recently had an abnormal pap (LGSIL).  I went back in for a colposcopy and do not have the results back yet.  The doctor said that i bled a little bit more than normal during the colposcopy but acted as if it was no big deal.  Anyway, he said that I would pass "coffee ground" material of which I passed a little but yesterday 3 days post procedure I passed a large clump ( the size of the smallest tampon) of this dark material at once and then last night I passed a smaller clump ( the size of the end of your thumb) anyway is this normal or is this a sign of something more serious?  Also, does it sound like this is treatable or will i need a hysterectomy?  Thanks for your time and advice.

[Keith Downing, MD]

Hello,

That "coffee ground" material is old blood.  Absolutely normal.  

You have demonstrated low grade changes on your pap smear as the result of exposure to HPV (human papilloma virus--the cause of genital warts and cervical cancer).  It is way to early to start thinking about surgery.  The colposcopy and the biopsies taken at that time are to confirm that indeed the cellular and tissue changes of the cervix are minor (ie pre-cancerous).  The results of the colposcopic guided biopsies will determine whether you need a procedure or surveillance only.

Best regards,

Dr. Downing