HPV so confused.....

I had a routine smear in January 2019 that showed abnormal cells and testing positive for HPV.

After attending a colposcopy, there wasnt one abnormal cell shown up and I was told there was no evidence of abnormal cells and to have another smear in 12 months.

Fast forward to now I have just had a baby 4 weeks ago so need to book in for my smear..... I have noticed what I have been told a tiny cluster of genital warts which now has totally freaked me out. I was told that pregnancy has most probably suppressed my immune system which is why this has shown up and may disappear on their own in 4-6 weeks.

I now have so many questions......

1. Does the HPV picked up in a smear test only test for high risk HPV or will it also pick up the wart strain?

2. Should i be worried that the virus is still in my body because I now have this to deal with? 

I am really anxious and I'm just not enjoying my new baby as much as I should be due to the worry

  • I can see you have a few questions playing on your mind at the moment Vickie so I just wanted to give you our cancer nurses telephone number as they're very knowledgeable in this area and may be able to help so if you'd like to have a chat with them they're available Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m on 0808 800 4040.

    Hopefully some of our members who have been in a similar situation will offer their support and advice to you soon as well.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator