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Cell changes and HPV positive

DMMGx
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Hi,

I have had abnormal cells twice before and received LLETZ twice and also a biopsy taken. I recently (November) went for a smear test and I heard back within 3 weeks and have an appointment for next week at the colposcopy clinic. They found cell changes and also hpv was positive.

 

I am really worried this time round as all of the cells had been removed with treatment and biopsy was okay. A year later changes are back and have hpv for the first time. What I am wondering is if this has happened to anyone else? What was the outcome?If so we're u offered other treatment?

Just feel like if LLETZ isn't working I would rather try something different also does anyone know how many times it's safe to do LLETZ?

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    Hi

    Abnormal cervical changes are caused by the HPV virus, so if you’ve had these cell changes before then you did have HPV before, and this actually wouldn’t be the first time. It’s just the first time you’ve had a positive HPV test. 

    The number of lletz treatments you can have will depend on your cervix and how much can be removed, but it is possible to have several of these. I have known ladies have 3 or 4. 

    There isn’t really another procedure to remove abnormal cells, so I’m not sure what you else you would hope to try? 

    Unfortunately abnormal cells can return after treatment, and all that you can really do is to try and keep your immune system as healthy as possible to “clear” the HPV virus so it doesn’t cause any damage. Unfortunately there is no cure for HPV, but a healthy immune system can keep it dormant/inactive so it doesn’t cause cell changes.

    If the colposcopy shows only borderline changes, you may not need to have treatment as you would just be monitored. It is only if the cell changes are moderate or severe that you’d be looking at having treatment again.

  • Offline in reply to Minska

    Had my appointment today, doctor was great and did offer other options of procedures to remove abnormal cells, she explained that there were other options available.

    My case is being discussed in a meeting of doctors in January as my case is unsual! Although I will have to wait until after the meeting to hear which treatment will be offered going forward I am happy that my doctor is looking at how we can progress.
     

    So for now I am going to try and enjoy the holidays.

     

     

  • Offline in reply to DMMGx

    That’s interesting to hear. Do you mind sharing what these other options are for treating abnormal cells as I’m sure it might be helpful to others. 

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