HPV positive 3 years in a row

Im currently 31. I've been going for smears for the past 3 years. My most recent came back as HPV positive again :neutral: cells said no abnormal which I suppose is good. However, you know how we all do and consult Dr Google. They say cell changes can be different at a colposcopy (ie the smear shows a snapshot but the secondary test actual checks the cells) so now I'm panicking. I'm looking up symptoms of CC. Abnormal bleeding - check. You should have seen my smear test when the nurse pulled it out, blood everywhere (had a partial hysterectomy  when I was 25 because i was flooding randomly, no endo present and drugs/ablation didnt stop it, previously had an ovary out for a large cyst when I was 16 too due to unbearable pain so im just left with just the one to stop early menopause) nurse did say it looked like I had a polyp on my cervix (about 2mm in size) and that could have caused the bleed. Then there's the back ache that's come on over the past couple of months. A sharp pain in my lower back (between pelvis) and general fatigue I've felt as of late. I'm probably worrying for nothing. But just want some reassurance from ladies here that have been in a similar situation.  What can I expect at colposcopy and can I just request a whip out of my cervix to stop this worrying each year?

  • Hi Wallywalk

    It’s not uncommon to have HPV which persists, but, no, you can’t just request to have your cervix removed. This in itself is a surgery not offered by all hospitals, and it doesn’t remove HPV.

    The colposcopy is a much closer examination of the cervix, and a dye is put on to identify any areas of abnormal cells. You are correct in saying that this is different to the smear test and can show different results, but I would not recommend using google and looking up cervical cancer symptoms as the information may not apply to you.

    Polyps are usually benign, and it could have caused bleeding, but it may be that a biopsy will be taken at the colposcopy to check. 

    I hope you don’t have too long to wait for the colposcopy and that it can put your mind at rest. x