Kindly clarify the statement regarding HPV in my Pap smear report.

Question

Hi doctor,

About three months ago, I got a Pap smear for the first time and it came back with abnormal HPV positive. My doctor did not really go in depth. So, I proceeded to get another Pap smear with another doctor about a week and it came back normal. I asked the doctor about my HPV and he said everything is normal. I went home happily by thinking that my body got rid of the virus pretty fast. I thought in case of young women it will clear on their own. But, I recently looked at my results online and it says the following. The HPV DNA criteria was not met with this specimen result, therefore no HPV test was done. I am unclear whether no HPV test was done or no need to get a further HPV test as my pap smear came back normal. I would like to get some clarification. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

No need to get any further HPV (human papilloma virus) test as the repeated Pap smear was normal. Besides that, the more important thing in a Pap smear report is the histopathology. From what you say, it sounds as of the type of cells in the smear was normal. There is nothing to worry about and you should just repeat the Pap smear as and when suggested by your gynecologist. Please do not worry. Just be sure to use a condom whenever you have intercourse, if you are not monogamous at present. If you are married, then it is fine.