ask: I was just told I have high risk hpv, does it always turn into cancer and what can I do to improve my system?
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This can be a concerning diagnosis to hear, but high-risk HPV does not mean you have cancer, and does not always turn into cancer.
High Risk HPV Facts:
- There are over a dozen different types (or strains) of high-risk HPV. Some do not cause or lead to any health problems. Other types can lead to cervical (or other types) of abnormal cell changes that then can lead to cancer over time if left untreated.
- Types 16 and 18 are the most dangerous, since they cause about 70 percent of cervical cancers.
- Most infections with high-risk HPV go away on their own and do not cause cancer.
What has your doctor recommended as your next step for further testing and/or treatment?
January 25, 2011 - 9:39amThis Comment
I am going for a colposcopy on Thursday (27th), which I'm scared to go, and they mentioned maybe some kind of freezing that might have to be done. My doctor has never bothered to explain any of this me ...as in how much pain these test are, what chances I have of cancer NOTHING !!! I have never had a abnormal pap-test until this last one, is that a good sign ?
January 25, 2011 - 11:26amYour doctor likely does not know what your chances of cancer are, as you need a colposcopy procedure done in order to know if there are abnormal cell changes that could (and could not) lead to cancer.
Previous normal pap test results unfortunately are not really relevant to a subsequent abnormal pap test; it is this current pap test results that indicate the necessity for further testing and possible treatment. Please know: most high-risk HPV strains do not cause harm or health risks, but it is important to know information about the types of HPV that can cause cell changes.
You can absolutely call your doctor's office, and ask to speak with the triage nurse about your concern and fear about your colposcopy procedure. If you were not given any instructions, please think through what information you want and need to know. How to prepare for the exam, what time to show up, how much pain is associated, etc. These are excellent questions to ask, and your nurse will be more than happy to help answer these questions for you. The more prepared you are for your appointment, the better the procedure goes for you and the doctors.
Here is information about colposcopy:
http://www.empowher.com/media/reference/colposcopy
Please let us know how your conversation goes with your doctor's office, and if you need any additional information. Many women have also discussed their stories regarding their colposcopy procedure on EmpowHER, and most described it as uncomfortable (like a Pap), and the stinging part was for a few seconds with the biopsy. Then, some cramping afterwards for the day. You can ask your doctor about pain management medication, too.
January 25, 2011 - 12:17pm