[Brandye]

About 80% of those who show non-specific cervical dysplasia do test positive for HPV. We do not know the cause of dysplasia which likely means that, like cervical cancer, it has many causes reinforcing one another. More than fifty percent of the general population will test positive for HPV of one sort or another. Left untreated most who test positive for dysplasia will progress to cancer. This may take ten years depending upon the level of the dysplasia.

If the dysplasia was successfully treated, you are at no higher risk than any other woman for cancer but you should certainly pay attention to your annual pap smear. Laser treatment has pretty well replaced cryo and is not as unpleasant. Of course, the doctor makes a huge difference. I have a preference for women doctors but then I am terribly biased. There are many, many competent male gyn's. A few of you seem to have crossed paths with a few of my less competent colleagues!

So, the short answer is that you should be getting an annual smear but, after successful treatment for the dysplasia, you are not at higher risk. The fact is we all are at risk!!! And should not ignore the annual smear.