My smear result came back as high risk HPV.
There were no changes to the cells so no further investigation at the moment and I'll be called back in 12 months for another smear.
12 months is a long time and I cant help but worry.
Would love to hear from people who have had similar results, I'm struggling with anxiety.
I haven't had the same experience as you because my smear tests pre-dated the recently introduced HPV primary screening programme. I kept up to date with my smears (all cytology based) until I was 50y and because I'd always had normal results I got complacent and decided not to get any more done. Big mistake - I was diagnosed with stage 2 squamous cell cervical cancer when I was 60y.
I think the worse thing about women knowing they have HPV is the anxiety it causes. In fact it means you will be closely monitored and any cell abnormalities will be found and treated much sooner than with the old system where, in your case, you would not be invited for any testing for another 3 years. Also knowing one has HPV is a good motivator to continue to get tested. Ignorant bliss and complacency can be a dangerous thing as I found out the hard way.
I go every 3 years, I don't even wait to be notified. I know when it's due and I phone to get booked in. X