Your test result
Positive
If your test result comes back positive, you need to visit your GP for follow-up tests. Your GP will check for cervical abnormalities. You will need regular checks in the future.
Testing positive for a high risk HPV type does not mean that you will develop cervical cancer. In fact, most women become infected with at least one strain of HPV at some point in their lives. In the vast majority of cases, the infection clears within a few months without causing any symptoms or damage.
However, it is very important that you attend regular smear tests if you carry a high risk strain.
If your test result comes back positive you may still wish to consider getting vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccination protects against several strains of the virus and it can protect you getting infected with further types of HPV.
Negative
If your test result comes back negative you do not currently carry any high risk strains of the HPV virus. You do not need to see a doctor for a follow-up appointment but you still need to attend regular smear tests.
You should continue to use condoms to protect yourself from HPV and other STIs.
If your test result comes back negative you may want to consider getting vaccinated against HPV.
Back to top