Low grade changes again but this time no HPV

[BonnieBlueButler]

Last year I had a smear which revealed borderline changes and positive for high risk HPV. The subsequent colposcopy was fine and no treatment needed.

It's now a year later and my most recent smear showed mild dyskariosis but this time no HPV. According to the letter, no colposcopy is needed this time and I have been put back on 3 yearly smears.

Obviously, I'm pleased that the HPV isn't detectable but am worried on two counts:

1. Does the wording of the changes - from borderline to low grade - mean the changes have got worse?
   

1. Three years seems such a long time to wait to check all is still well when there are obviously changes going on.
   

Does anyone have any advice?

[LordEmsworth]

Hmmm. Well, I wouldn't be comfortable with that. Can you make an appointment to discuss with your GP?

[PollyPerky]

I think you need more information from your drs, but you don'thave to wait 3 years if you are prepared to pay for a private smear.
I am only due for smears every 5yrs due to my age but have always had them every 2-3 years. The cost isn't huge.

[BonnieBlueButler]

Thank so both.

I did consider a private smear. Everything I've read suggests that the absence of HPV means chances of the changes becoming anything sinister are really low. Still, 3 years is a long time.

How do you go about getting a private smear? What kind of cost are we talking?

[PollyPerky]

You may be able to get a smear at Marie Stopes clinics, private GPs, well woman check ups at your local private hospitals. There are also some nurses who have set up their own smear clinics outside the NHS. Just google in your area. I pay around £75 privately but that is London and a top private hospital.