Scared!!!
Recently I had a Pap test done it came back with abnormal cells I now have to go for a colposcopy in a weeks time biggest fear is HPV I just dont understand how that could be possible... I have always been safe!!! Im finding it hard to deal with the anxiety and anger!! All other pap tests ive had done have always come back normal how can it change in a year...! Its just not making any sense to me!! The more I research the more I am starting to feel uncomfortable!!! I have been in a relationship with my girlfriend for 6 years and have not been unfaithful nor has she!!! How can this be??!! How do I cope??!!
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So I had the colposcopy done this week also a biopsy... Lets just say it was one of the most painful experiences I've ever had to go through but it's done now.. Results should be back within a week or so...
My partner went and had pap and hpv test all has come back clear!!!! I suppose this is a good sign yeah???!
Also don't forget that results can come back as false positives - so there is a small percentage of tests that come back as "abnormal" whereby they are actually completely normal. Just something to remember.
My mum had a mammogram come back as abnormal a few years ago and had to go for more tests but they came to the conclusion that it was just a false positive.
And I totally agree with the others in that it's good they've picked it up now if it is something to be concerned about - the earlier you catch it, the better the prognosis!
I really feel for you, the wait can be excruciating, but try to stay positive. 🙂
Hey scared,
Firstly I think it's totally normal to feel a bit anxious over the news you've received, but it's also really important to try not to stress out too much about it. Did you check out the coping strategies that Ruenhox linked you to? They can be really helpful if you're feeling overwhelmed. There's also some relaxation techniques here and here if you're finding yourself getting worked up and unable to calm yourself down.
Also, I just did a quick google search and found this booklet from the Australian government about abnormal pap smear results - I only read the first few pages but it's pretty reassuring. Most people who receive abnormal pap smear results don't have any symptoms, that's why it's so important to have them done regularly to keep ontop of things. If there is anything wrong, it's great that it's only been a year since your last test, because it means they've caught whatever it is early, and it will be easier to treat. Try not to get too ahead of yourself - take this one step at a time.
Hang in there 🙂
I'll share a little something with you my first ever pap smear I had I came back with abnormal cells and I felt the same way you did I was so upset, scared I just cried and cried about it I was scared because I didn't know what to think I didn't know what to do. I decided to contact the DR and speak to them about it which made me feel a bit better maybe giving the dr a call so they can explain more of it to you?
Did you know that it is pretty common for people to get? I know a few people have had it and after I had the colposcopy/Lletys producer done it was okay I just had to go back for 6 month pap smears for two years now I go yearly. You can also decide to have it done under Local or General Anaesthetic you don't often get signs for this either that's why it is so important to have pap smears done because it's easier to treat abnormal cells and has a high chance of working :).
I find it better asking the DR questions because I i find if I try and research things it makes me feel more worried and stressed.
I'm thinking of you through this tough time do you have any family or friends to support you through this?
Hey scared_26
It is terrible that you received some un-nerving results from your test. I can understand why you would be feeling less uncomfortable each time you do research. As much as it is great to do research it can sometimes make your mindset worse. I once got severe migranes for weeks and when I went to the docs, they had no idea what was wrong and said for me to take tests and when I got home I started researching and I made things so much worse for myself, got stressed out and immediately jumped to the negative and all it was, was a stress headache.
I think the best thing you can do for yourself right now is take care of yourself, it is hard to forget but as you said you find it hard to deal with anxiety and anger. Having some coping techniques right now is important to help you relax and not stress. It might also be helpful to lean on your girlfriend and your family in this time because they might be the strength that you need.
What is one thing that you can do today for you to feel a bit better?
