HPV

When a obgyn tells you your cells are ASCUS does that mean you have HPV?

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

A Pap smear finding of ASCUS ("atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance") is associated with HPV about half the time.  Proper follow-up is either to have an HPV test, which may have already been done at the time of your Pap (if done and negative, HPV has already been excluded); or to repeat the Pap in 3-6 months.

In any case, not a big worry.  No need to change your sexual practices, inform your partner, or use condoms.  (Even if HPV is present, those things are optional, not required.)

HHH, MD