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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Sexually Transmitted Infections > HIV and pap results
Posted on: 05/03/2005
Question
I know a abnormal pap can mean possible HPV. If it does come back abnormal, could it be also that you could have HIV? I've heard if you have HIV your pap will always come back abnormal?
Answer
If you are concerned about HIV, you should have yourself tested. (The results are confidential). As for the abnormal pap smear, you should ask your physician if you were checked for HPV, if not, at the next visit, the physician can perform the HPV test. Having an abnormal pap smear is usually not a marker for HIV. It is more concerning if someone has cervical cancer at an early age -- then HIV should be checked.