What is HPV? | Gynecologist Explains Abnormal Pap Smears?

Board Certified ObGyn, Dr. Danielle Jones ("Mama Doctor Jones") explains everything you need to know about human papillomavirus, or HPV. What is HPV? How common is HPV? How do genital warts and abnormal pap smears relate to this sexually transmitted infection? Dr. Jones answers all your questions and more in this two-part series all about HPV (part 1) and the HPV vaccine (part 2 - "the good the bad & the ugly"). Have a question about HPV or the HPV vaccine? Leave them in the comments below!

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** The information in this video is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this video is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider. **

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[lisakoziol]

I'm going for a biopsy in 3 days because I had an abnormal pap smear. This video made me feel better about it thank you

[kewlkidz]

MDJ makes me feel so safe and I'm not exactly sure why, but there's good vibes here

[AkaneKat]

I had an abnormal pap smear with HPV positive. This video really did calm my nerves. Knowledge is power.

[Jessmab]

I was first diagnosed with HPV at 19, when I was pregnant with my second child. I had abnormal cells, but had to wait until I delivered to have it treated. At 8 weeks PP, I had a LEEP procedure. It was scary, but I'm glad I went through with it. I didn't have any more issues for over 20 years, through 2 more healthy pregnancies. My body has cleared it. Then around age 40, it showed up positive again at my annual pap. Biopsy showed CIN2 cells. I ended up needing another LEEP. I asked to be put to sleep for it this time, and it was so much easier. Well, my gyno wanted to be conservative on how much cervix she removed because it was my second LEEP. And the results showed that she didn't get good margins. So the LEEP was unsuccessful, and she couldn't repeat it. She recommended partial hysterectomy, sparing my ovaries. I am done having children, but I still didn't want to have it done. So she sent me to a gyno oncologist. They did extensive biopsies and followed me for 6 months. Then she repeated my pap last January, and it came back clear. No HPV. So I'm very glad that I didn't go through with the hysterectomy, but that only worked because I went to EVERY APPT. Ladies, please don't get scared and stop going back! Yes, it is terrifying to have this stuff done. It's hard to think about. But it's never as bad once you get there and just go through with it. The worry is worse than the actual procedures. You have to take care of yourself.

[sunnigeorge]

You make gynecology not so scary and bring humor along with great information 🌸

[captsamsung]

"Please don't mention the pepper in my teeth because it will hurt my feelings as its super fragile!" 🤣🤣🤣 love it. I promise i won't say anything if you dont!!

[crazedMidnight]

When the HPV vaccine came onto the market my Grandma immediately had me get the vaccine. My Grandma had cervical cancer and so did her Mom. At the time I didn't understand why I needed the vaccine but your video helps clarify and educate the public about the importance of reproductive health!

[theladytammy]

I had an abnormal pap when I was 17 and was told I needed a hysterectomy. Surgery scheduled, there was no problem. 26 years later, 2 sons, 1 grandson, 1 granddaughter later...

[erins]

Where was this video when I got my first abnormal pap when I was 21?! This would have saved me so much stress and crazy research.

[misslizallen]

I've followed your videos for a few months now but just got an abnormal pap smear result and my immediate thought was "I wonder if MDJ has done a video on this so I can understand it more". Of course you did and it was so informative. I feel so much calmer and more informed now. Thank you.

[vaiapatta]

This is the first time anyone has ever explained these things to me. Thank you so much! This video needs to be subtitled in every language and go viral.

I can't wait to see the video on HPV vaccines, because I've been concerned about some apparently iffy things going on and I'm very happy a gynecologist is finally going to address the issue in a way I can understand.

[jessicaraelene]

I tested positive for HPV years ago, but about a year or two later I tested negative and have been negative since. My body didn't like it I guess.

[selenamckim]

I've dealt with this and I was very fortunate to have an awesome doctor on my last treatment and a very awesome nurse that was with me for more than 3 appointments. It honestly makes the difference!

[alexaschubert]

Would you consider doing a video on Strep B in pregnancy, the treatments, and why some practitioners would suggest no antibiotics for it. For instance in the UK they don’t treat it, but it seems there are really bad potential impacts on baby. Thanks :) love your videos

[ramblingnymph]

Mama Doctor Jones-- I lived in Japan for a bit and once it's open to our country I will be happy to give you recommendations regarding being in Japan. I was also hoping you could speak more on midwives and being a midwife. I know you're an OBGyn, but I've been interested in midwifery for awhile, and don't think I want to go to med school. I love babies and want to help bring them to the world. It sucks, but we've got puppies.

[catrmr]

thank you for this video. I got my diagnosis today, I have a high risk of HPV type 31. I am 32 years old and I was planning to become a mother in the next years. Im very scared and starting this journey is just very confusing. Thank you for clearing some things out, my doctor is very professional but we did have a limited amount of time to talk about it.

[madeline]

My friend's mom had cervical cancer when she was 19 and was told she could never have kids. Good news she wound up having 3!

[LizMisamore]

I've been celibate for the last two years because I was diagnosed with HPV 16 and my paps are still abnormal (2 colposcopies with biopsies done). I don't want to risk spreading this to another woman down the road.

[kb]

My sister was diagnosed with cervical cancer last year from HPV contracted from an ex boyfriend. Unfortunately for years she didn’t have access to affordable health care to get these routine checks & was a busy stay at home mom. She had to get a full hysterectomy luckily that removed everything and she didn’t need more treatment but it did kill her dreams of having more children. HPV is so important for men & women to be educated on!! Thanks for this video ❤️

[Rinesim]

My mom was diagnosed with cervical cancer when she was in her early 40s - thankfully she came out all clear after a hysterectomy. Last year I had an abnormal pap smear and had to go for a biopsy which came out clear (although having it done made me cry). Now I'm on the hunt for a new gyno as I just moved from the UK to the US in March. Gotta go check all's good down there this year!