HPV positive but normal cell result

Hi all

I had my first smear in December 2018 since turning 25. Results came back as no abnormal cells but HPV positive. This was a shock as I didn’t even know what it was and the letter didn’t mention risk type or strain just said for me to go back for a smear in 12 months. 

I phoned my gp and she said they only test for high risk so it is a high risk strain but she didn’t have info on what one... she told me not to worry but I can’t help it  

I had the HPV jab in secondary school so I’m hoping that worked at preventing the 2 strains it is meant to! 

Im concerned at how long I may have had HPV considering it’s my first smear and I’ve been sexually active for some time. I don’t have the best immune system and was recently on antibiotics for 2 months for strep throat which I think made my immune system even weaker during the winter months. I have also had a partner of 4 years and was worried about infidelaity but have been assured HPV can lay dormant for years. 

My main worry is that a year is too long to wait but appreciate it takes the body a while to fight off. I suppose if it was serious I would have been called back for further tests but the internets information is extremely conflicting :( 

The fact it’s sexually transmitted makes me feel so dirty. I have always been extremely careful. 

Parents
  • Hi, 

    I'm in a similar situation right now. I received my results, which stated that I am HPV positive but have no abnormal changes, making me a low-risk patient who will need to return in 12 months' time.

    I'm 24 years old (I had my smear test 6 months before my 25th birthday) and I'm feeling very alone because I don't have many friends or family members who have had this result.  As I've been sexually active since the age of 20, it makes me wonder who and when I contracted it. With the exception of two individuals, I've always used protection.

    I keep looking for ways to improve my immune system, reduce stress, and eat a healthier diet on the internet. My main concern is whether or not I should share this information with any future partners or previous intimate partners. I've heard that in smear tests, they didn't test for HPV until 2019, which is why it's hardly mentioned.  I kind of wish I hadn't found out I had HPV, but it has definitely influenced my decision to abstain for a year or two until the virus has cleared up.

    Also, it's painful that I have to wait a year, so I'm thinking of buying an HPV kit in 6-8 months to see if I've gotten rid of it, which will hopefully put my mind at ease. But, for the time being, I believe I will have to concentrate on strengthening my immune system, as I am not the healthiest person and only eat one meal per day. 

    We've got this girl xx

Reply
  • Hi, 

    I'm in a similar situation right now. I received my results, which stated that I am HPV positive but have no abnormal changes, making me a low-risk patient who will need to return in 12 months' time.

    I'm 24 years old (I had my smear test 6 months before my 25th birthday) and I'm feeling very alone because I don't have many friends or family members who have had this result.  As I've been sexually active since the age of 20, it makes me wonder who and when I contracted it. With the exception of two individuals, I've always used protection.

    I keep looking for ways to improve my immune system, reduce stress, and eat a healthier diet on the internet. My main concern is whether or not I should share this information with any future partners or previous intimate partners. I've heard that in smear tests, they didn't test for HPV until 2019, which is why it's hardly mentioned.  I kind of wish I hadn't found out I had HPV, but it has definitely influenced my decision to abstain for a year or two until the virus has cleared up.

    Also, it's painful that I have to wait a year, so I'm thinking of buying an HPV kit in 6-8 months to see if I've gotten rid of it, which will hopefully put my mind at ease. But, for the time being, I believe I will have to concentrate on strengthening my immune system, as I am not the healthiest person and only eat one meal per day. 

    We've got this girl xx

Children
No Data