Receiving an abnormal HPV result can feel worrying, but it does not automatically mean you have cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus, and certain types can cause changes in cervical cells over time.
Understanding your results can help you take the right steps toward protecting your health.
What Does an Abnormal HPV Result Mean?
An abnormal HPV screening result usually means a high-risk type of HPV was detected. These types can increase the risk of cervical cell changes, although many HPV infections clear on their own without causing lasting problems.
An HPV result is different from an abnormal Pap test. HPV testing looks for the virus, while a Pap test checks cervical cells for changes.
Your provider may recommend one or both tests depending on your age, history, and screening results.
What Happens After an Abnormal Result?
Your next step depends on the HPV type detected, your Pap test results, and your previous screening history. Your provider may recommend repeat testing after a specific interval or a closer examination of the cervix through a procedure called colposcopy.
In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to examine cervical tissue.
Follow-up matters because persistent high-risk HPV infections can lead to precancerous changes. However, an abnormal result alone does not mean these changes are present.
Your gynecologist can explain your individual risk and recommend an appropriate screening plan.
Can You Prevent Future HPV-Related Problems?
HPV vaccination can protect against several HPV types associated with cervical cancer and other diseases. It works best when given before exposure to the virus, but some eligible adults may still benefit.
Vaccination does not replace routine cervical cancer screening. Keeping recommended appointments and following your provider’s guidance are important, even if you feel healthy.
Get Guidance for Your Next Screening
At Capital Women’s Care, we help patients understand screening results and determine appropriate next steps. If you have an abnormal HPV result, call us at 301-593-8101 to speak with a member of our team or schedule a consultation online now.
Over Three Decades of Trusted Women’s Healthcare
For more than 30 years, Capital Women’s Care has delivered world-class obstetrical, gynecological, and fertility care to patients throughout the Washington, D.C. Metro area. With modern, state-of-the-art medical centers in Silver Spring and Laurel, we make top-tier healthcare convenient and accessible.
A Multidisciplinary Team Built Around You
Our practice features more than 10 medical professionals—including board-certified OB/GYNs, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants. This diverse depth of skill allows us to provide truly tailored treatment, whether you are seeking routine preventive care, high-risk pregnancy management, specialized fertility guidance, or advanced minimally invasive surgery.
Care in Your Language
We believe clear communication is essential to exceptional healthcare. To serve our diverse local community, our team includes practitioners fluent in English, Spanish, Hebrew, French, and several other languages.
Complete Clinical Services
- Comprehensive Obstetrics & Fertility: Dedicated support for growing families, covering everything from fertility evaluations to high-risk prenatal and delivery care.
- Gynecological Excellence: Preventive checkups, birth control consultations, and targeted treatments for conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and fibroids.
- On-Site Mammography & Imaging: Advanced diagnostic breast care and ultrasound services available directly in our offices.
Want to select a practitioner or read individual doctor bios? Visit our Our Providers page to meet the team.
