What is abnormal? Until a few years ago, a Pap smear was called normal unless the cells were very, very unusual. Because every Pap test can miss abnormal cells that are actually there, many cancers were not detected until they were at advanced stages. To improve the accuracy of the Pap test and lower the number of false negative results and catch problems earlier, the method of reading was changed. Now, anything at all that seems less than perfect is noted as abnormal. The lowest and most benign level of abnormality is ASCUS. These changes can be caused by common, minor irritations to the cervix. Minor vaginal infections, intercourse, douches, spermicides, tampons, dildos, or diaphragms--virtually anything that has been in the vagina can cause enough irritation to cause ASCUS. If irritation is the only reason for the abnormal result, then once the irritating factor is removed, the test reverts to normal. At the end of your menstrual cycle, you may be shedding the sloughed off cells of the lining of the uterus at the level of the cervix before you actually notice the start of your period. These cells may be picked up on a Pap test taken at the end of your cycle and can easily be confused as an abnormal Pap. This is why a provider/doctor may ask a woman to repeat the test mid-menstrual cycle.