Raised CA125

Hi all, I'm sure this has been asked a million times but during my smear a few years ago, it came back with slightly raised CA125 levels. They booked me in for an ultrasound and it came back all clear and the doctors was sure that there was no reason to be worried. I've since found out that I got genital warts from an ex who cheated on me, but I've only ever had one outbreak since 2018 and I have no symptoms that suggests I should be worried (I'm 34 years old), but every now and then the worry comes back. 

I know from research that the strain of HPV that causes genital warts isn't necessarily the same strain that causes cervical cancer so realistically I shouldn't worry too much, but I was wondering if anyone else has had a similar experience? 

  • Hello exiledswede

    CA125 levels aren't routinely checked as part of the NHS cervical screening process here in the UK so I'm presuming you either had this level checked for another reason or that you weren't living in the UK at the time. 

    CA125 levels can be raised for a number of reasons other than ovarian cancer including endometriosis, your menstrual cycle, and pregnancy. It's reassuring to hear that you had an ultrasound and that nothing of concern was found at that time. 

    There's some information available on the Jo's Trust website about HPV, genital warts, and cervical cancer that will hopefully give you some reassurance but if you'd like to chat things through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm. 

    I hope this helps. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator