HPV - High Risk

[Looby40]

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.

[Perido]

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.

[Looby40 in reply to Perido]

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

[AskEveTeam]

Hi there, Thank you for your message.

We completely appreciate that this is easier said than done, but please try not to worry about this and stress yourself out whilst waiting for the next test in 12 months.

HPV is common - around 80% of us will get it at some point in our lives. Most of the time it will go away on its own, i.e. when you have your next test it's likely it will come back HPV negative.

If HPV does persist, then it typically takes around 10 years or so for it to cause any abnormal changes to the cervical cells. A test 12 months after an initial HPV positive test with no abnormal cells is a safe time to wait before checking again.

If you have any other questions, please do get in touch with us on [e-mail]

Best Wishes

The Ask Eve Team

[Bubbles1017]

I had this twice now and 6 month review twice now it's doing my head in I don't no why it won't just disappear , don't u worry LV just make sure u go don't leave it as can turn to cancer , keep strong x