Hi Chloe,

My last smear came back hpv positive and low grade cell changes so I had to have a colposcopy. The doctor told me hpv causes cell changes and quite often the cells go back to normal once your body clears the hpv virus although that can take up to a year. You just have to trust your immune system will do its job. At my colposcopy they did a biopsy but its come back clear so all my stress and worry was for nothing thankfully. You may have to have a colposcopy too now, if so take a couple of painkillers an hour before, I did and never felt any pain at all. The colposcopy will check everything ok and chances are its the virus(which is really common by the way) causing your cell changes. Hope this helps a little x

Hi there Chloe and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear about the symptoms you have and appreciate how receiving abnormal screening results must be a worry.

Try not to over think things if you can and remember screening is all about picking up abnormality that can then be monitored or treated until everything to return to normal.

It is very possible to both have an erosion as well as hpv and cell changes at the same time but the management of these is different.

I am assuming you are to now be seen in colposcopy where they again will be able to check for abnormal areas of cells in the cervix that may need treating. The colposcopist will stain the cervix to show up any abnormal areas which they can then take tissue samples ( biopsies) to confirm the type of abnormality and treatment that may be needed.

Abnormal cells are not cancer and rarely is cervical cancer picked up through screening, especially if people attend for regular screening as called and any needed follow up appointments. If and when cervical cancer is found through screening it is often caught at an early stage where it is easily and successfully treated so sit tight for now and don't let your mind run away with you.

I hope this is helpful but do get back if you have further questions. We also have our helpline on 0808 800 4040 if you prefer to speak over the phone, we're here Monday-Friday 9-5.

Wishing you all the best

Naomi