Hi

5 years ago my smear test result came back 'borderline abnormal cells' but hpv negative, so I was classed as low risk for developing cervical cancer.  I have just got my results of my latest smear test back, to find that because I tested negative for hpv again, they didnt even test my sample for abnormal cells.

I knew that this was possible, so I explained to the nurse that did the smear, that I had to have cin3 cells removed many years ago ( before they started testing for hpv), so I was a bit paranoid with regard to cell changes that had started happening again, she was going to make a note on the form, that I had prior history and that they may hopefully then test the sample.

I realise that hpv causes the majority of cervical cancer, but that is not a cast iron guarantee is it?

Do you know whether if I paid for a smear test to be done privately, would it get tested properly or would they just go to the same labs, and therefore only get checked for hpv?

For reference, I am 55 years old, 8 months since my last period, with no signs of any problems, I just would feel reassured to be properly screened.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Annie