HPV

I was recently told I had an abnormal papsmear and tested positive for HPV. I am going in one week for a coleposcopy (sp?) and possible biopsy of the cervical cells. After this appointment will I know the strain of HPV that I carry? Should I be overly worried or concerned? The doctor called to assure me that the procedure is routine since the virus is commonly found in women my age. However, I'm not completely convinced and uneasy about the entire situation. From what I've read HPV can cause cervical cancer, however there are few instances with women you have their annual exams (which i do every year since I was 16). is this correct? Thanks.

[Amanda0922]

Just so you know, while you were told that you tested positive for hpv there's a very good chance you weren't tested at all. I'm not saying that there's a chance you don't have hpv since it is usually the cause of such cell changes but it's still good to be informed when it comes to this process. You probably will not know the strain of hpv that you have. Doctors rarely do strain specific hpv tests. I am assuming you are around my age, in your 20s or so? They may do actual tests to check for hpv along with strain specific tests in women over 30, but under 30 usually not. Your doctor is right though, this is a VERY common virus. Essentially, we ALL will contract genital hpv in our lifetime. There is really no way around it, of course with the exception of two virgins who come together and stay together for life. It is the #1 occurring std but usually does not cause symptoms which is why so few people know that they carry it. You're right- hpv can cause cervical cancer but it doesn't happen often, ESP when you make sure you have your annual pap and get in for your colpos on time. There are high risk strains (may cause cervical cancer) and low risk strains (may cause genital warts). It is a wonderful thing you are trying to learn more about the virus. Learn as much as you can! And take excellent care of your immune system so that you may help it shove the virus into dormancy. Make your immune system your #1 priority :) While it is unlikely your doctor will do a strain specific test, do talk to him/her about all of your concerns and be sure to also ask if you have high risk or low risk.

[turkee23]

im on the same lever as you im going today for my coloskopy and im sooooooooooo scared !!.....im extremly stressed out and i heard that just makes it worse but its just so hard not worry.......good luck