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HPV positive & severe/ high grade dyskaryosis

epopslou9817
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I had my first ever smear test on 31st March this year, and waited nearly 8 weeks for my results which came back HPV positive & severe/ high grade dyskaryosis. For which I was referred to my local hospital for a "Colposcopy" procedure which left me rather worried because it was my first smear test so it's all new to me! I received my letter yesterday, for an appointment today which was a little relieving knowing I wouldn't have to wait in worry for an appointment! 
I checked in, everyone was kind and very empathetic. I met a lovely lady in training first who took me into a little room with 2 other ladies, where I met Lucy who carried out the procedure. She talked me through my smear test results so I had a better understanding, and what they were planning to do. She explained that they were going to do an LLETZ procedure too which I had read up about online as being quite normal to be done alongside a colposcopy from what I understood.

I can't say it was the most pleasant experience but once she had administered the local anaesthetic (which was the worst of it), it wasn't too bad but I was a bag of nerves! I was fortunate to have had my mum come with me and hold my hand, so for anyone here just looking up about this procedure in general I do recommend bringing someone with you if you can! But also the nurses on hand are brilliant! Even though I had mum holding my hand, the nurse stood by my side and held my hand too, reassuring me and talking me through everything step by step what was happening and keeping me distracted the best she could! 
 

I have been told they have sent it off to pathology for testing and I will be informed within 4 weeks of the results. I was relieved to hear that 90% (roughly, I can't remember the exact statistic the nurse told me) of LLETZ procedures cure/ resolve and clear all the abnormal cells. But I am a worrier! Does anyone know what kind of results can be received, and what I could possibly expect! I like to know any possible outcomes, I would be most grateful just to understand any possibilities!

  • Hi epopslou and thanks for posting.

    Although it can be stressful having these procedures done, it sounds like you had a positive experience.

    You're right when you say over 90% of people who have a LLETZ (large loop excision of the transformation zone) procedure will not have cell changes.  You will usually have a follow up appointment about 6 months after your procedure.  This will be to see whether all the abnormal cells were removed.  Some people may need to have another LLETZ but most won't.

    Try to remember that cervical screening and the follow up procedures are done to prevent cancer rather than find it, and it is very rare to find cervical cancer at one of these appointments.  The most common result is called CIN (cervical intra epithelial neoplasia and is graded from 1 to 3.  There is more information on the Jo's Trust website here about the different types of results you can receive and an explanation of each type.  

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful 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,

    Rachel

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Rachel

    Hello Rachel!

    thank you for your reply!

    I am now 8 days post LLETZ, I am experiencing extreme mood swings, hysterical breakdowns for no reason/ over minor irritations that wouldn't usually bother me, I feel really low about myself and generally I'm usually quite a happy chirpy person! I have been monitoring the foul odour which has been a challeng because it is pretty offensive to me but I have been using the information given to me to make its no more rancid than it should be! 
     

    Do you know how long this smell usually lasts?! I just feel dirty all the time it's awful!

  • in reply to epopslou9817

    Hi Epopslou and thanks for posting.

    I'm sorry to hear you're having a difficult time.

    Some people find that the smell can last for a couple of weeks.  It can be due to the procedure that you've had, but sometimes it can be due to an infection.  If you notice the smell getting worse, have a temperature or feel unwell, get in touch with your GP.

    It can be difficult when you have had these procedures done, things can feel overwhelming and uncertain. It can help to talk to other people about how you're feeling, maybe a close friend or family member. 

    Hopefully you'll find that as things return to normal you start to feel better.  In the meantime, you might like to have a look at this website from the NHS, Every mind matters which can help you manage those feelings you are having.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful 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,

    Rachel

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