Cervical Cancer Risks: Your Questions Answered

Please ask me about cervical cancer?

Hello Doctor, regarding the question I asked previously, reports have stated that having sexual experiences at an early age can increase the risk of cervical cancer by six times, and that if a woman's partner has multiple sexual partners, the likelihood of her developing cervical cancer can be up to nine times that of the general population.
You mentioned that my test results were negative, so my risk of cervical cancer is the same as that of others.
I would like to ask you two additional questions.

Question 1: Can I interpret your statement that my risk of cervical cancer is the same as that of others to mean that my risk is the same as that of the general population?
Question 2: Given my current situation, I do not smoke or drink alcohol, and my partner has not solicited sex since his last encounter with a sex worker two years ago, and he assures me that he will never do so again in the future.
Does this mean that my future risk of cervical cancer is also the same as that of the general population?
Honestly, my anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder have been troubling me greatly.
I am currently seeking treatment from a mental health professional; otherwise, I struggle to sleep and eat, constantly worrying about cervical cancer.
Below is the content from my previous inquiry for your reference or as background information.
Thank you for your understanding.
Previous Question 1: Hello Doctor, I am 33 years old and have just completed a Pap smear and HPV test, both of which were negative, with no HPV detected.
Due to my anxiety, I even opted for a colposcopy, which also came back normal.
My first sexual experience was before I turned 18.
I have seen reports stating that having sexual experiences at an early age can increase the risk of cervical cancer by six times.
Given my test results are negative for both the Pap smear and HPV, and the colposcopy result is normal, should I still be concerned about this six-fold risk in the future? Is my risk of developing cervical cancer the same as that of the general population?
Previous Question 2: Hello Doctor, I am 33 years old and have just completed a Pap smear and HPV test, both of which were negative, and I have also tested negative for HIV.
Due to my anxiety, I even opted for a colposcopy, which also came back normal.
I have been with my partner for over ten years, and he recently admitted to me that he had solicited sex while we were together.
After a heated argument, I have forgiven him.
He claims that he last solicited sex two years ago, but that encounter did not involve any physical contact, only bathing and using a towel (as 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 he took safety precautions.
From four years ago to two years ago, we mostly used condoms during sex, although there were occasional instances without.
Recently, I read reports stating that if a woman's partner has multiple sexual partners, her risk of developing cervical cancer can be up to nine times that of the general population.
Given my test results are negative for both the Pap smear and HPV, and the colposcopy result is normal, should I still be concerned about this nine-fold risk in the future? Is my risk of developing cervical cancer also the same as that of the general population? Thank you, Doctor.

vicky, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should have the same opportunities as others, so don't worry.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/06/07

More Info

Understanding cervical cancer risks can be quite complex, especially when considering various factors such as sexual history, HPV status, and personal health. Let's address your concerns step by step.

Question 1: Interpreting the Doctor's Statement
When your doctor mentioned that your risk of cervical cancer is the same as that of other individuals, you can indeed interpret this to mean that your risk is comparable to the general population. This is based on the fact that your recent screenings, including Pap smears and HPV tests, returned negative results. Negative results in these tests are strong indicators that you do not currently have cervical cancer or significant precancerous changes.
The statistics you mentioned regarding early sexual experiences and multiple sexual partners increasing the risk of cervical cancer are based on population studies. While these factors can contribute to risk, they do not determine individual outcomes. Your current health status, including negative screenings, plays a more significant role in assessing your personal risk.

Question 2: Future Risk Assessment
Regarding your second question, your current lifestyle choices, such as not smoking or drinking, and your partner's commitment to not engaging in high-risk behaviors (like visiting sex workers) significantly contribute to lowering your risk of cervical cancer. The fact that you have consistently used condoms during sexual activity also provides an additional layer of protection against HPV transmission, which is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

It's important to remember that while certain behaviors can increase risk, they do not guarantee that an individual will develop cervical cancer. Your negative HPV test is particularly reassuring, as HPV is a major risk factor for cervical cancer.

Addressing Anxiety
Your anxiety regarding cervical cancer is understandable, especially given the information available online and the statistics you've encountered. It's crucial to focus on the facts: you have undergone thorough testing, and the results have been normal. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, are essential for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. The general recommendation is to continue these screenings as advised 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.

If your anxiety continues to interfere with your daily life, it may be beneficial to discuss this with a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help manage anxiety and provide coping strategies.

Conclusion
In summary, based on your current health status and screening results, your risk of developing cervical cancer is similar to that of the general population. Continue to engage in regular health screenings and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you have ongoing concerns about your health or anxiety, seeking support from a mental health professional can be very beneficial. Remember, knowledge is power, and staying informed about your health is the best way to alleviate fears and ensure your well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding HPV Risks: Beyond Cervical Cancer in Women

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if someone has had genital warts, besides cervical cancer, what other risks are there for vaginal cancer or other diseases? Is the likelihood of developing cancer very high? What type of virus should be tested for, through a wart examination or...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the other risks are not high. Generally, a cervical HPV test is performed. If there are still concerns, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Managing Anxiety About Cervical Cancer Risks: A Guide for Women

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 anxi...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you are all negative, just like everyone else. Don't worry. Wishing you good health.

Understanding the Link Between Herpes and Cervical Cancer Risks

Hello Doctor, I have been married to my wife for 20 years and we have three children. Recently, I experienced some discomfort and visited a dermatologist, who diagnosed me with herpes simplex virus type 2. I am unsure when I contracted it, as it doesn't often flare up. A few...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, herpes virus is less likely to cause cervical cancer, while human papillomavirus (HPV) is more likely to do so. Wishing you good health.

Understanding the Risk of Cervical Cancer: Common Concerns and Myths

Hello, doctor. I have a question I would like to ask you. I have a habit of using a showerhead to stimulate my genital area, but I do not engage in sexual intercourse. What is the likelihood of contracting cervical cancer in this situation?

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the likelihood of developing cervical cancer is very low. In order to develop cervical cancer, one must first have an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual intercourse. Since you have not engaged in sexual activity with a male, ...