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LadyR · Jun 9, 2009, 07:09 AM

My obgyn said I had HPV :( , she said that she compared my pap results from last year 2 this year and this year it was positive. Just because the pap came back positive, does that automatically mean its because of HPV? She also said I had to get my pap smear done every 6 months for like the rest of my life.. is that true? I have read that sometimes a second test is done, but she didn't mention that to me she only said schedule your pap 6 mnths from now... does that mean its not as serious? What should I expect from now on? :confused:

DoulaLC · Jun 9, 2009, 01:27 PM

If the test was for HPV and it came back positive then it was because of the HPV. You can have a normal pap smear and still be positive for HPV as they are not the same test or sreening, they just done at the same time.

When you test positive for HPV, or you have a positive result on your pap screening for some abnormal cells, it is very common to have a repeat test done about 6 months later (some doctors choose to recheck in 3 months time). Some women will no longer test positive for HPV, as their body will naturally take care of it, some will still test positive on the recheck.

If you continue to show positive on either the pap or HPV, your doctor may decide to do some more checking, often with a biopsy of some of the cells, to decide if any treatment is necessary. If a woman has two or three clear tests in a row (just an example as the number will depend on the doctor), she often can go back to the usual yearly exam.

As a side, if you are sexually active, a condom can offer protection from other HPV strains.

LadyR · Jun 9, 2009, 05:23 PM

Thanks DoulaLC, I understand a little more now. I've been doing some research online, but there are so many websites with different information. If there is anything else you think I should know, please let me know, because I have felt so many emotions since I found out that I don't know what to think anymore, but it wasn't something easy to hear...

DoulaLC · Jun 9, 2009, 05:43 PM

If it is any consulation... it is actually a fairly common virus to have. Most women will never know they have it, this is why it has become a more common test that is offered during a pap screening. It usually causes no problems, often is cleared up on its own, but since there are so many strains, and some can become a concern, it is checked for and watched to be sure it doesn't become a problem. If there were any question, then your doctor would recommend some treatment. If your doctor was very concerned, she would have you back in sooner than 6 months for a recheck.