Sorry I meant to say as I  need to wait for another screen should I stop sex with my husband ? 

Hi there Tobywashere and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear you tested positive to HPV as part of your cervical screening test but try not to over think this for now. HPV is extremely common and most people will clear it without it causing issues. The primary HPV test was introduced to the cervical screening programme a few years ago now.

It is frustrating that the cytology test to check for abnormal cells was inconclusive but this sometimes can happen. There does need to be a gap now of at least 3 months to ensure an accurate sample can be obtained. Whilst I appreciate this can be unsettling try not to worry about this. The cervical screening programme follows strict protocols to ensure any abnormality is monitored and treated in a timely fashion.

There is no need for you to attend colposcopy unless abnormal cells are detected so try and sit tight and not over think this.

Even if abnormal cells are found on your next screening it usually takes a long time for them to turn from abnormal to cancer cells ( and that's if they do as mild changes often resolve by themselves) so this little wait shouldn't affect the overall outcome.

It is fine to continue to have sex whilst having HPV. Condoms can provide some protection but as HPV is passed through intimate skin to skin contact it can still be passed on. Most couples sexually active where one of them has HPV will have passed it on but that persons immune system will also normally clear it. 

I hope this helps but do get back in touch if you want to or give us a call on 0808 800 4040. We're here weekdays 9-5.

Best wishes

Naomi

Thank you so much for replying Naomi. I have found out today that I actually missed my last smear test in 2019 I was looking after my sister  who had short terminal cancer. I’m now super concerned as the gap had been so long. I think it’s hard for me to get my head around that fact that there could be abnormal cels there and waiting 3 months seems so long. perhaps utilising my works private healthcare may be of benefit - or will they still say I need to wait 3 months ?