If your pap test results came back positive, that means abnormal or unusual cells on your cervix were found. It does not mean you have cervical cancer.
Most often, the abnormal test result means there have been cell changes caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), and can be linked to cervical cancer. Changes to your cervical cells caused by HPV can be mild, moderate, or severe.