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HPV - Normal Pap but Positive HPV test - Need answers

I've always had clear pap smears and relatively no medical problems.  When I had my yearly physical at age 33, the nurse practitioner suggested that I do an HPV test along with my yearly pap.  The pap came back clear but the HPV test was positive.  I was shocked.  I came back a year later and had the same results.  At this point I am headed to my GYN to have a colposcopy.  My question is whether that is standard for two clear paps despite the positive HPV.  Also, what are my chances that the HPV will clear within two years?  And what are the chances that the colposcopy will find problems even though the pap was clear?  I'm incredibly worried and didn't get many answers from GP.  There seems to be a lot of misinformation on this subject in chat forums and I'd appreciate an answer from an MD.  Thanks.
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Avatar universal
Hi there :). I am 23 and have just this past January been diagnosed with high risk HPV. I asked my doc a bunch of questions that may help you. It is virtually impossible to tell exactly when or from whom you contracted HPV, so it is very possible that you have had the virus for a while and just now symptoms have started occurring. So the good news is your cells are ok :) which is wonderful news, but the bad news is you have HPV. Up to 80% of women and men alike are likely to encounter or be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives, the kicker is they just don't know it! Different people react differently to HPV. It could clear your body in a matter of months or even years. Most people, and were talking up to 92%, clear the virus within one to two years. Smoking, birth control, and other factors may raise your risk of prolonging the virus' stay in your body. If you exercise, eat right, and keep your immune system healthy, the chances that your HPV will go away quickly increase. When I had my pap done, my doctor immediately scheduled me for a colposcopy. It's not really that bad, just relax and take deep breaths, and I would recommend laying on the table for a little bit longer because when I got up I saw definite stars! lol. The chances also that your colposcopy will have bad news is also small. Mine came back with no cell dysplasia and only mild cell changes to the cervix. My gyno has me on a six month pap check, and I just got it! I am so nervous! I want my HPV to be cleared so bad. As for your gyno, I would consider a) switching or b) getting to know them a little better. She sounds like she may be withholding needed information from you. It's better to be comfortable with your gyno that uncomfortable. You won't ever ask her any questions and then you'll never be in the know about HPV, and let's face it, knowledge is power. I had no idea HPV existed until my life changed drastically in January. The same NP that helped with my colposcopy always does my blood pressure and weight, and I feel really close to them. I think you have the right to feel close to your gyno too, and that she is doing everything she can to help you in your time of need. Hope this helps!!
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Avatar universal
I think Amie635 will be the best person to answer this. But i would not get downhearted that it has not cleared after a year as it can take up to two years for it to clear, as you can do is keep having check up with your doctor and you will be fine :)
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Avatar universal
One other question.  I've been on the pill since age 15, with short periods of going off of it over the years.  For the most part, I've been on it.  Can long-term OC use lead to cervical dysplasia.  My GYNs over the years always downplay risks but research online is indicating otherwise.  Should I discontinue use considering the HPV has not cleared over the last year?
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