What can activate or reactivate hpv in the body after testing negative yearly with normal paps then suddenly positive but not 16/18 but normal pap ? is having bacterial vaginosis a factor that could reactivate it or cause a positive hpv?

The reasons for HPV reactivation are not well known. BV may be a factor in some cases, but usually not. The large majority of women over age 30 who have abnormal Pap smears (or newly discovered HPV on pap) have experienced reactivation, not a new HPV infection. In almost all cases, no particular reason can be found. Reactivation of HPV is so common it should be considered normal.