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HPV diagnosis

HPV positive, now what?

You are not alone. 80-90% of all people will encounter the HPV virus. The fact that it has been found is actually a good thing. Now you can keep an eye on it.

If you have just been told that you are HPV-positive, it is logical that you might be startled. You may feel fear, shame, or uncertainty. That is completely understandable. But let us reassure you: HPV is incredibly common, and in most cases, your body clears the virus on its own.

80-90%

of all sexually active people encounter the HPV virus. Having HPV says nothing about you as a person or your relationship.

Bron: RIVM

What does HPV-positive mean?

HPV-positive means that the Human Papillomavirus has been detected in the cells of your cervix. But that is only the beginning of the story; in itself, it does not yet say anything about abnormal cells or cancer:

  • HPV-positive ≠ abnormal cells. The virus is present, but there do not have to be any abnormalities.
  • Abnormal cells ≠ cancer. Even if abnormalities are found, these are precursors that in many cases recover spontaneously.
  • Your body can clear it. In 80-85% of women, the virus disappears within 1-2 years.

What is the next step?

After an HPV-positive result, it is important to know the following about the standard medical trajectory:

  • If you tested HPV-positive through the national screening program, the cells (the smear test) are automatically examined. Sometimes you are referred directly to the gynecologist.
  • In 2018, 32.4% of women with a positive HPV test were referred directly to the gynecologist for further investigation.
  • The gynecologist will perform a colposcopy and potentially take a biopsy to determine if there are abnormal cells and, if so, how severe they are.

Can I do something myself?

Yes, absolutely. There are concrete steps you can take to support your body in clearing the HPV virus:

  • Strengthen your immune system: Nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle play a crucial role. Think of sufficient vegetables (especially cruciferous vegetables), vitamin C, folic acid, and zinc.
  • Stop smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for HPV progression.
  • Reconsider the contraceptive pill: The pill is a risk factor. Discuss alternatives with your general practitioner (GP).
  • Reduce stress: Chronic stress suppresses the immune system via cortisol.
  • Ensure good vaginal acidity: Recurrent frequent vaginal infections can be treated effectively through natural methods.

Questions about your situation?

Feel free to get in touch for personal advice regarding your HPV diagnosis.

Contact us

Personal Story

“When I heard I was HPV-positive, I was incredibly shocked. I felt dirty and ashamed. But after a conversation at HPV Health, I understood that it is very normal and that I could do something about it myself. Within a year, the virus was gone.”
L

Lisa

HPV-positive

Veelgestelde vragen

Did I infect my partner?
HPV is so common that it is not always possible to determine by whom and when you were infected. The virus can be present at a very low level (almost undetectable) for years. Let go of the guilt; it says nothing about your relationship.
Should I tell my partner?
It is wise to communicate openly. HPV is no reason for shame. Your partner has likely already come into contact with the virus as well. Men can be carriers without knowing it.
Can I get rid of the HPV virus?
Yes. In 80-85% of women, the immune system clears the virus within 1-2 years. You can support this process by strengthening your immune system through nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments.
How long have I had HPV?
That is difficult to determine. The HPV virus can be present in the body for years without causing symptoms. It is impossible to trace exactly when or through whom you contracted the virus.
Can HPV return after it has gone away?
There is discussion among experts as to whether HPV actually disappears completely or becomes inactive. A quantitative determination provides more clarity about the type of HPV virus and its behavior. If the virus is present at a very low level in the cells, it is not always easy to detect in an HPV test. A test may then appear negative, while the virus is present in the cells at an almost immeasurable level. Re-infection with another high-risk type is also possible. A strong immune system is therefore always important.

Questions about your situation?

Feel free to get in touch for personal advice about your HPV diagnosis.

Contact us

Related pages

What is HPV?

Everything about the HPV virus

Abnormal smear test

What an abnormal smear test means

HPV in men

HPV and the role of the partner

Strengthening the immune system

What you can do yourself