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HPV High risk and moderate abnormal cells.

Jess90x
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Hi everyone. I had a routine smear last year in Jan 2021. They found HPV & low grade abnormal cells. I went for a colposcopy and there, they said, I can see what has been detected but I am not going to do anything with it, come back in a year for another smear. So fast forward to this year. Jan 2022 I had my smear again. I called my GP yesterday to chase and the nurse called me straight back wondering why I hadn't received another letter for a colposcopy, she asked me this before telling me any results, so I knew it wasn't great. I asked for my results and they are now high risk HPV & moderate abnormal cells. 

What does this mean for me and has any one else experienced this or changes in a year? or even not gone away? What will happen is what I am asking I think. I feel like they could have done something last year to avoid this? Just scared and worried now, 31 years of age, 3 beautiful daughters and I am due to get married next year. I do want honesty though as I would rather be prepared. 

 

J x

  • Hello and thank you for posting.

    I can tell that you are very anxious about this, but please do remember you do not have cancer. What has taken place does sound routine, not unusual and in line with the current guidelines. Low grade abnormal cells and HPV are often left and monitored to allow the body to naturally get on top of what is going on, rather than treating them immediately which could be unnecessary if the HPV clears and the cells go back to normal. This comes from many years of research of what is the best course of action in any given scenario.

    HPV often clears within a 6 - 18 month period, this means the cells can change back too. Sometimes the HPV can take longer to clear in the body and so the abnormal cells remain but if needed, can be treated later. 

    The important thing is sticking to the screening programme and following their advice.  If you smoke then it would be good to give up as this makes it more difficult for the body to get on top of the HPV. 

    I know you feel quite concerned by this, I hope this has helped, but if you want to talk it through further you may want to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care

    Sarah.

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