HPV Support Group
Human papillomavirus is a diverse group of DNA-based viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes of humans. More than 100 different human papillomavirus (HPV) types have been characterized. Some HPV types cause benign skin warts, or papillomas, for which the virus family is named. HPVs associated with the development of such "common warts" are transmitted...
Ive been battling genital warts for about 6months. My dr called today to tell me my pap smear came back with abnormal cells. I have a colposcopy scheduled on monday. How horrible is this precedure? How do people know their pap detected hpv? My dr said nothing about this. Does anyone know if genital warts outside the body often cause abnormal paps? The doctor said the abnormalities were mild but is it possible I have cervical cancer and they just scraped a part of my cervix that had only mild abnormal cells?
Low-risk HPV is the kind that causes genital warts. High-risk HPV is the kind that causes cell changes and abnormal paps. Abnormal paps can ranged anywhere from ACSUS (just abnormal cells/non-cancerous) all the way to CIN (II and up are pre-cancerous). Your doctor should have that on your pap smear lab results.
When the doctor looks at your cervix, he will be able to actually see if there is any dysplasia (CIN I and up),but in most cases the colposcopy reveals a normal cervix.
The biopsy results should be returned within a week and, truthfully, 99 percent of the time it's negative for anything and all you'll need is a follow up pap smear. The only problem with this is that often times abnormal paps take a while to return to normal (this is my one bone to pick) so don't be surprised that even after six months the pap still comes back normal.
With HPV, you must build up your immune system to fight the virus. That means, absolutely NO SMOKING, as smoking is more the culprit in cervical cancer than HPV. You also need to eat healthy, take vitamins to support your immune system, exercise and reduce stress. Following this regimen and getting regular check-ups will keep you healthy.
As far as the colposcopy, it sounds scarier than it really is. You'll be done in no time and there is not really any discomfort afterwards, just some minor bleeding. I found it helpful to take two Ibuprofen before the procedure.
Good luck!