Abnormal Pap

I am 37 years old and recently had an abnormal pap and tested positive for high risk hpv. My last sexual activity was over three years ago.  I have regular periods and have had no symptoms such as pain, bleeding etc. I have never had an abnormal pap before (my last one was two years ago).  

My doc advised a repeat pap in three months. I am not a fan of watchful waiting and requested a colposcopy which I am scheduled for in 2 1/2 weeks.  

I am quite worried. What are the chances that this will be a cancer as opposed to a precancer, or better yet, nothing at all?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

HI!
I am glad you are going for colposcopy, as that is the correct next step.  I don't know what your pap showed, but unless it was high grade dysplasia or CIN, there is almost zero percent chance that you will have cancer.

If my patient was 37 years old and had a similar history, I would strongly consider a LEEP procedure--this removes a portion of the cervix about the size of a nickle, which can then be sent for analysis to rule out cancer.  It also removes the majority of abnormal cells and is likely to clear up your paps.  

You should have them at least yearly, once you have had an abnormal one--don't skip!

If you are vigilant (and I suspect you are) you will never have cervical cancer.

Good luck!
Dr B

[seekandfind2007]

Hi, Im writing because I have a question. I went to the gynecologist 11 days ago to get a annual pap smear. The doctor told me that my cervix is kinda red, but I have no abnormal discharge. I get a pap smear once a year, and ive never had a abnormal one.  Im 26 years old and ive had 3 partners in my life.

I haven’t had sex in a 1 year, and ive been checked for std’s. I have no abnormal discharge. I do wear tampons, but ive been off of my period for 5 to 10 days before the exam.  Could the tampons cause the redness? Or is this a sign of cancer, hpv, or dysplasia?   I just started wearing tampons for the first time in my life, and ive worn them for the last 3 month's....do they cause irritation?

Please help!!!!! Im so frighted and the results wont be ready until 10 days from now.