Frequently Asked Questions - High-risk Human Papillomavirus found, not enough cells

24/06/2022

My letter says that I am HPV positive, but you were unable to check my cells. Why couldn't you check my cells for any changes?

Sometimes, during the cervical screening (smear) test, the nurse or doctor is unable to collect enough cells from the cervix. This means that the sample cannot be checked for cell changes, therefore an accurate result cannot be given.

We recommend that you attend for a repeat cervical screening (smear) test no sooner than 12 weeks after your original screening test, this is to allow the cells to grow back.

24/06/2022
I have been advised to wait three months for a repeat cervical screening (smear) test. Why do I need to wait?: We ask participants to wait 12 weeks to allow the cells on your cervix to grow back. This will help with ensuring that we can read the cells of your next test.

24/06/2022

I have been advised to wait three months for a repeat cervical screening test. Is there any risk with waiting?

We understand that with a HPV positive result that having to wait can be worrying. It is important that you wait 12 weeks to allow the cells on your cervix to grow back, this will help ensure that we can give you an accurate result.

If you are very concerned please speak with the doctor or nurse who took your sample or contact the regional cervical screening nurse, who can advise on your individual screening history.

24/06/2022

My letter says that I am HPV positive, but you were unable to check my cells. Could I have cervical cancer?

As you are HPV positive and without checking your cells, we are unable to provide you with an accurate result. Cervical cancer is very rare, however we understand that delays to your cervical screening result can be worrying.

If you are concerned please speak with the doctor or nurse who took your sample or contact the regional cervical screening nurse, who can provide you with advice based on your individual screening history.

It is important that you attend for a repeat cervical screening (smear) test no sooner than 12 weeks after your original screening test, this is to allow the cells to grow back.

24/06/2022
I do not like going for cervical screening. Is it important that I return for a repeat cervical screening (smear) test?: Yes, it is important that you attend for a repeat cervical screening (smear) test. This is because we have found high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) in your sample, that can cause cervical cell changes, which if left untreated, may over time, develop into cervical cancer.