Understanding Pap Smear Results
A 26-year-old woman, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds, has a medical background that includes depression, ADHD, and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Her surgical history entails repairs to her labrum and the extraction of wisdom teeth. Currently, she is on a regimen that includes Wellbutrin at 350 mg, atenolol at 25 mg, and cetirizine at 10 mg. Her past Pap smear findings have been varied, starting from 2021, which indicated HPV positive with ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance). The result for 2022 showed a negative HPV test but indicated LSIL (Low-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion). The 2023 Pap smear showed no abnormalities. In 2024, the test was again HPV positive with ASCUS. Due to previous issues with biopsies conducted without pain management and limitations noted during colposcopy, her subsequent Pap smear in 2025 was conducted six months after the last test. This test reported no lesions or cellular changes, and while HPV types 16, 18, and 45 returned negative, the presence of HPV mRNA E6/E7 was detected. After receiving her results on Monday, she has experienced confusion, despite extensive research online. Her gynecologist has indicated a follow-up call to discuss her results and potential next steps, which adds to her anxiety as she recalls past negative experiences with her previous gynecologist. Now, she seeks insight into the implications of her results and guidance on when it would be appropriate for her to reach out for further information. For those who resonate with her experience or have undergone similar situations, sharing personal stories might be beneficial.
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 4:30:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re feeling confused and anxious about your recent Pap smear results, especially with the variations over the past few years. It’s completely understandable to seek clarity on what these findings mean for your health and what steps might follow.
Summary of Your Results
- 2021: HPV positive with ASCUS.
- 2022: Negative HPV with LSIL.
- 2023: No abnormalities.
- 2024: HPV positive with ASCUS again.
- 2025: No lesions or cellular changes, with negative types 16, 18, and 45, but presence of HPV mRNA E6/E7 detected.
Explanation
- ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) indicates that some cells from your cervix look unusual, but it’s not clearly cancerous. Often, this is linked to HPV, which is quite common.
- LSIL (Low-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion) shows mild cellular changes often caused by HPV, which your immune system can usually clear.
- The HPV mRNA E6/E7 presence means that, while you have a low chance of developing cervical cancer with the currently available data, it reflects the ongoing presence of high-risk HPV types that require monitoring.
Next Steps
-
Follow-Up Call with Your Gynecologist: This will be crucial for understanding what your doctor recommends based on your complete history and current results. Prepare a list of questions or concerns to ensure you get the information you need during the call.
-
Monitor Symptoms and Emotional Health: Since you have a background of depression and anxiety, consider reaching out for support if these feelings worsen. Journaling your thoughts or discussing them with a trusted friend or therapist might help you process these emotions.
-
Stay Informed: It’s beneficial to learn about HPV and cervical health, but limit your online research to reliable sources (like the CDC or WHO) to reduce confusion and anxiety.
-
Plan for Regular Screenings: Keep up with your scheduled Pap smears as advised by your healthcare provider. This is important to monitor any changes over time.
-
Consider Pain Management Options: Since previous experiences with biopsies were uncomfortable, discuss pain management options for any future procedures with your gynecologist.
If you feel particularly uneasy or if symptoms arise, such as unusual changes in your cycle or discomfort, it would be appropriate to express these concerns during your call with your doctor. You have every right to advocate for your comfort and understanding in this process. Remember, you are not alone, and reaching out for support is a strong step forward.
Related Questions
Understanding Post-Surgical Pain After Ganglion Cyst Removal
I’m 17 years old (female, though I prefer He/him pronouns) and I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) along with Dysautonomia. Currently, I’m not taking any medications that might impact my situation apart from an SNRI and birth control to manage cramping. Around a month ago, I underwent surgery to remove a ganglion cyst located on my dominant wrist (the right one). This cyst had been present for roughly three years, and despite my doctor attempting to aspirate it, the procedure was unsuccessful due to its firmness, leading to surgical intervention. This cyst significantly limited my wrist mobility. Now, after approximately four weeks post-surgery, I can say that my wrist is mostly improved. The scar is healing fairly well, and I’ve regained about half of my wrist’s mobility compared to the left one. Yet, I still experience significant pain when I move or apply pressure on the area that housed the cyst. Is this pain considered normal? Additionally, my fingers are in constant discomfort, and my wrist seems to dislocate frequently. Due to my EDS, I am accustomed to joint pain and dislocations, but this particular pain feels more severe than what I usually endure. When I brought this up with my surgeon, he dismissed my concerns, stating that such dislocations are common for individuals my age. However, I experience dislocations at least twice daily, and the process of resetting them creates such a loud sound that I've been asked to leave classes to avoid disturbing others. Is this normal? Could it be related to the cyst? Moreover, about four days ago, I noticed a small lump forming on my wrist just above the surgical area. When I consulted my doctor about it, he informed me that it was a benign fatty tumor and assured me it wasn't a serious issue. However, I've never encountered anything like this before, and while the lump is not painful, soft, and relatively small, I’m puzzled about its sudden appearance. Why did this occur, and what could explain my doctor’s nonchalant attitude towards my symptoms? I understand that experiencing pain and limited mobility after surgery is not unusual, but given my doctor’s dismissive approach towards my concerns, I felt compelled to seek insight here as well. He often seems skeptical about the symptoms I report, making it difficult for me to fully trust his evaluations.
Concerns About Changes in Partner's Semen Consistency
At 19 years old, I’m seeking some insights regarding a situation. My girlfriend, who is also 19, has experienced a noteworthy change in her semen consistency during our intimate encounters over the last two to three weeks. To provide some background, she stands at 5 feet 5.5 inches tall and weighs approximately 130 pounds. Her ethnicity is Caucasian, and she is from Canada. Historically, my girlfriend has been in good health without any significant medical conditions. Currently, she is not taking any medications. Previously, she had a history of frequent vaping, but that was about a year ago, and now she limits it to occasional use. The change in her semen is quite striking; it appears very thick, white, and somewhat chunky, rather than being mostly liquid. There are some liquid components, but the thick texture predominates. Throughout this period, she has maintained her regular diet, and importantly, there are no signs of a urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted disease. Neither does she experience any pain or unusual odors. This alteration has raised some concerns for her, and while I am trying to be supportive, I am uncertain about the potential causes. We searched online for explanations, but the reactions we found mostly related to digital sources that discussed various infections or medical conditions, none of which seemed to match her symptoms. Does anyone have insights or similar experiences regarding this matter? It would be appreciated in easing her worries and determining the best course of action.
Three Weeks Post Gallbladder Surgery - Is It Infected?
Patient Profile: - Age: 35 - Gender: Female - Height: 5 feet 4 inches - Weight: 160 pounds - Ethnicity: Asian Issue Duration: 3 weeks Location: United States Relevant Medical History: Approximately three weeks ago, I underwent gallbladder removal surgery. Recently, I have observed a slight amount of cloudy fluid emerging from the surgical site over the past few days. Just moments ago, I noticed a possible pus discharge from the incision. While there is no significant pain, I do feel mild soreness when shifting my position. I have not experienced any fever or chills, and there is no unpleasant odor coming from the wound. Should I continue to clean the area with soap and water, or would it be prudent to seek immediate medical attention at the ER for a professional evaluation?
Should I Seek Medical Attention?
At 22 years old, I am a female who has been on medications like duloxetine, lamotrigine, and hydroxyzine for several years. I have managed to keep my Graves' disease under control, but I have reasons to believe I may also be experiencing symptoms of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Last year, I was scheduled to consult a neurologist regarding hand tremors and the possibility of fibromyalgia. Unfortunately, I could not continue my treatment after relocating and losing my health insurance. Just 15 minutes ago, I fainted. Prior to that incident, I was feeling unwell—dizzy, my vision was blurry, and I experienced a whooshing sensation along with heat in my ears. My face and arms also felt tingly. After fainting, I experienced a heavy, aching sensation in my head, and I still have a headache now. Additionally, I’ve been waking up with headaches for a couple of days. I want to know if it's advisable to go to the emergency room. It's important to note that this isn’t my first fainting spell; I had one incident years back, which helped me recognize the signs when it started happening. At that time, I was lifting a heavy bed frame, and when I began to feel faint, I tried to sit down but stood back up to assist, and that’s when I lost consciousness. I’m unsure how long I was out, but I initially thought I was just sleeping before realizing what had happened when I regained awareness.
Seeking Guidance for My Mother's Sudden Hearing Loss Case
I am looking for advice regarding my mother's situation with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). **Patient Overview:** - **Age:** 48 years - **Gender:** Female - **Medical Issues:** Hypothyroidism and overweight (approximately 95 kg at the onset) - **Treatment:** Thyroid medication (25 mcg taken daily) **Medical Background:** In November 2025, my mother experienced an abrupt hearing loss in her right ear accompanied by dizziness and nausea. We consulted several ENT specialists within approximately 36 hours following the onset of her symptoms. She received a diagnosis of SSNHL but unfortunately, she did not undergo intratympanic steroid injections during the critical first 24 hours that could have aided her recovery. Despite receiving subsequent treatment, she has not regained hearing in her affected ear. **Examination Results:** - **Audiogram:** Loss of approximately 100 dB in the right ear; left ear shows normal hearing. - **Brain MRI:** A normal scan was conducted previously, ruling out tumors. - **Laboratory Tests:** Recent blood tests (including thyroid function, HbA1c, renal and liver function tests, CBC, etc.) show elevated TSH (6.73) and a HbA1c of 8.5%. We are currently preparing for a contrast MRI to eliminate the possibility of a vestibular schwannoma or nerve issues. **Current Condition:** The hearing loss persists in her right ear. She is feeling anxious about the upcoming contrast MRI, which involves gadolinium injection. However, she has started making positive lifestyle changes and has lost about 4.5 kg over the past two months, adhering to a protein-rich diet and a walking regimen. **My Inquiries:** 1. Is it still beneficial to perform a contrast MRI several months after the initial SSNHL diagnosis, considering that a normal MRI has already been completed? 2. For cases such as this—severe SSNHL with delayed steroid intervention—are there realistic prospects for hearing recovery at a later date? 3. Are there any additional tests or treatments that should be taken into account at this stage? 4. For family gatherings where loud music will be present, would high-quality earplugs or noise-canceling earbuds be a good option to safeguard her healthier ear? 5. Is it advisable for her to continue with whey protein supplementation and the weight-loss plan? 6. What should we prioritize for long-term management: hearing aids, rehabilitation, regular monitoring, etc.? I recognize that the chances of recovery may be slim, but I want to ensure we are covering all bases and that her care plan is appropriate. I appreciate any insights or suggestions you can offer. Thank you for your assistance!