HPV and Pap smear

Would a pap smear come back abnormal if you have an active *low-risk* HPV infection or must they test for the actual virus via some other means besides a pap to identify? Would high-risk infection return abnormal pap results? Thank you for any information, this is a very confusing virus.

[amanda0620]

if you have high risk hpv then im thinking you would have abnormal smears untill they treat infected cells? i went for a full std screening and they dont actually test for hpv,the only way u will know if when ur smear comes back with abnormal changes. hope this helps still trying to come to grips with it all myself

[SarahB79]

high risk hpv infections will over time change the cells on your cervix.  Low grade changes can fix themselves as the hpv infection clears up.  Low risk hpv doesn't change the cells of the cervix therefor would not show up on a pap smear.  High risk HPV doesnt show up on a pap smear either, it has to be tested for seperately and they usually only do that if a abnormal smear comes back.  Hope that helps.