Oak Ridge, TN
A 37-year-old female asked about a 36-year-old member:
I was sexually assaulted in 2012. ive not had pap smear since than but have attempted one. how likely would it be to have cervical cancer? i read hpv usually causes no harm and most dont get cancer. im going schedule a pap smear again and try it
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 48 years experience
Some basics: In the pre-vaccine era as many as 70% of college age women were test positive for some prior HPV infection. We have done paps for decades to screen for cervical cancer before the link to 7 or more HPV strains was discovered. A person with prior risk strain exposure can go years/decades before cancer develops if ever, but it is a deadly risk. Non HPV cervical cancer is also possible.Get tested.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
104 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Gurmukh Singhanswered
Pathology 51 years experience
Agree with Dr. F: Get PAP smear done.
It is not too late to get HPV vaccine.
Have a healthy diet, exercise 30 minutes/day, drink plenty of water, have safe sex, no tobacco alcohol weed or street drugs. For nutrition: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.
Wish you good health!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
103 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Feb 4, 2021
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