Managing Anxiety About Cervical Cancer Risks: A Guide for Women

Worrying all day about having cancer?

Hello, doctor.
I apologize for not intending to repeat my questions; I just feel that my wording was not precise enough, and I'm concerned about any miscommunication.
After making slight adjustments, I kindly ask you to answer these two questions in order.
I have severe anxiety and constantly worry about having cancer, so I appreciate your understanding.
Thank you, doctor.
First question: Hello, doctor.
I am 33 years old and have just completed a Pap smear and HPV test, both of which came back negative, indicating no HPV virus.
Due to my anxiety, I even went for a colposcopy at my own expense, which also returned normal results.
I had my first sexual experience before the age of 18.
I have read reports stating that having sexual experiences too early can increase the risk of cervical cancer by six times.
Given that my Pap smear and HPV test results are negative and my colposcopy results are normal, I feel reassured now.
However, should I still be concerned about this six-fold risk in the future? Is my likelihood of developing cervical cancer the same as that of the general population?
Second question: Hello, doctor.
I am 33 years old and have just completed a Pap smear and HPV test, both of which came back negative, indicating no HPV virus.
I have also tested negative for HIV.
Due to my anxiety, I even went for a colposcopy at my own expense, which also returned normal results.
I have been with my partner for over ten years, and recently he admitted to me that he had engaged in sex work while being with me.
After a heated argument, I have forgiven him.
He claims that he last visited a sex worker two years ago, but that encounter did not involve any physical contact, just bathing afterward and using a towel (I have read that HPV can potentially be transmitted via towels).
Over the past two years, we have mostly had sex with condoms.
He also admitted that his second-to-last encounter with a sex worker was four years ago, and he assured me that he took safety precautions.
From four years ago to two years ago, we mostly used condoms, although there were occasional instances without them.
Recently, I read reports online stating that if a woman’s partner has multiple sexual partners, her risk of developing cervical cancer could be up to nine times higher than that of the general population.
Given that my Pap smear and HPV test results are negative and my colposcopy results are normal, I feel reassured now.
Should I still be concerned about this nine-fold risk in the future? Is my likelihood of developing cervical cancer the same as that of an average person? Thank you, doctor.

vicky, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/06

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you are all negative, just like everyone else.
Don't worry.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/06/06

More Info

Managing anxiety about cervical cancer risks is a common concern, especially for women who have experienced anxiety disorders. It’s important to address your questions with both medical facts and reassurance.

Firstly, regarding your concern about the risk of cervical cancer due to early sexual experience, it is essential to clarify that while some studies suggest that early sexual activity may be associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer, this is often contextualized within a broader framework of risk factors. The most significant risk factor for cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Since your recent Pap smear and HPV tests returned negative results, this indicates that you do not currently have the virus that is most commonly associated with cervical cancer. Therefore, your risk of developing cervical cancer is likely similar to that of the general population, especially given your negative results from the colposcopy as well.

As for the claim that early sexual experience increases the risk of cervical cancer by six times, it is crucial to understand that this statistic can be misleading without considering other factors such as the number of sexual partners, the presence of HPV, and other lifestyle factors. Since you have been diligent in getting screened and your results are normal, you should feel reassured. Regular screenings and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key components in managing your cervical health.

Now, addressing your second concern regarding your partner's past infidelity and the associated risk of cervical cancer, it’s understandable to feel anxious given the circumstances. However, it’s important to remember that the transmission of HPV, which is the primary concern regarding cervical cancer, is not guaranteed through every sexual encounter. The use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of HPV transmission, although it does not eliminate it entirely. Since you have been primarily using condoms during intercourse, this further lowers your risk.

The statistic you mentioned about women whose partners have multiple sexual partners being at a higher risk for cervical cancer is also nuanced. While it is true that having a partner with multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of HPV exposure, your current negative HPV test results indicate that you are not currently infected. Therefore, your risk of developing cervical cancer remains comparable to that of women without such exposure.

In summary, based on your current health status—negative Pap smear, negative HPV test, and normal colposcopy—you should not be overly concerned about the risks of cervical cancer at this time. It is essential to continue regular screenings as recommended by your healthcare provider, typically every three years for Pap tests and every five years for HPV tests, depending on your age and health history.
Managing anxiety is also crucial. Consider discussing your feelings with a mental health professional who can provide strategies to cope with your anxiety about health concerns. Remember, knowledge is power, and staying informed about your health can help alleviate fears. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider will ensure that you remain proactive about your cervical health.

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