Frequently Asked Questions - HPV not found result
- 24/06/2022
- My letter says that I am HPV negative, but you have not checked my cells for changes. Why haven't you looked at my cells?
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Cell changes are caused by HPV. If there is no HPV detected on your test we do not need to look at the cells. If HPV is not found we do not need to examine your cells as your risk of developing cell changes is extremely low. We know that some women find this worrying, but actually a test showing no HPV is more reliable than finding normal cells.
- 24/06/2022
- Even though I am HPV negative, I want my cells checked. Can I have this done?
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No, if HPV is not detected we do not need to examine the cells as your risk of developing cell changes is extremely low.
We know that some women find this worrying, but actually a test showing no HPV is more reliable than finding normal cells.
- 24/06/2022
- I am HPV negative, so why are you inviting me for screening again in 12 months' time?
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After first test of cure – As you have had treatment in Colposcopy, we monitor you more closely to ensure that the treatment has been successful. This means more frequent cervical screening (smear) tests for a short period.
For people with an RVI – As you have a condition which may affect your immune system we monitor you more closely.
- 24/06/2022
- I am HPV negative, so why are you inviting me for screening earlier than the normal five-year routine recall?
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As you have been seen in Colposcopy, we monitor you more closely. This means more frequent cervical screening (smear) tests for a short period of time. If your next cervical screening (smear) test is HPV negative we will invite you for further screening in 5 years time.
- 24/06/2022
- Is it safe to stop my invitations if you haven't checked my cells?
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Yes it is safe. In Wales, individuals who can have cervical screening are invited up to the age of 64. The screening programme stops then because individuals who have no HPV (human papillomavirus) at this time are very unlikely to go on to develop cervical cancer in later years.
Although cervical cancer does occur in older individuals, it is often in people who have had no screening, or who have not had enough screening tests in the past.
Even if all of your past tests were normal, it is very important that you report any unusual bleeding, discharge or other symptoms to your GP.
This includes:
- Bleeding after sex, between periods or after the menopause
- New or different vaginal discharge (change in colour, amount or consistency)
- Lower tummy or back pains, or pain during sex