Lletz after normal smear??

FormerMember
FormerMember
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Hi all so quick back story, since age 20 I’ve had gynae issues, between age 20 & 25 i had 3 lletz procedures. Last year (age 36) i was diagnosed with vin3 & had a WLE operation in December. I had more biopsies done in July and the vin is back so going in for more surgery in 4 days time. After my last colposcopy & smear (July) i Received a letter (copy of gp letter) saying that a vulva lesion was found, my cervix could only be partially visualised & my vaginal wall couldn’t be examined. This hasn’t been explained to me. So I went for my pre op on Friday and was asked if I understood the procedure I’m having done so i said yes (assuming it was just another wle) but it turns out on the paperwork I’m having a colposcopy, excision of vulva lesion & Lletz treatment. My smear test came back normal but with high risk HPV. I don’t understand why I’m having a lletz when my smear was normal? Has this happened to any of you? Thanks x

  • Hello Jodie83 The cervival screening programme in England changed in 2019 to HPV first testing which means that they test for the virus first and then check for cell changes. The sample of cells in a smear test is very tiny and so a colposcopy and lletz allows doctors and pathologist to examine a larger quantity of cells to check for abnormal cell growth. I am not medically qualified but would imagine that your medical team are being thorough to be on the safe side especially given your history. If I were in your situation I would ask my medical team. They may not be able to answer your questions over the phone but you could write down your questions ready for your appointment. You could also try making a GP appointment to discuss this. The MacMillan nurses on the helpline or on the Ask the expert forum may also be able to explain the protocols followed by your medical team and the science behind it all. I hope this helps you. Big hugs A x

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  • PS there is also an Ask the expert service on  the Jo's cervical cancer trust website and another on The Eve Appeal. 

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