I had a hysterectomy for cervical cancer two years ago. A recent smear taken from my vagina has found HPV. Does this mean I could develop another cancer?

Some types of human papilloma virus (HPV) can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix.

Much less commonly HPV can cause changes in the cells of the vagina, called vaginal intra-epithelial neoplasia (VAIN), or of the vulva, called vulval intra-epithelial neoplasia (VIN). If these changes occur they should be monitored and may need to be treated. This is because in some cases they can develop into cancer.

HPV is a common infection and cancers of the vagina and vulva are rare, so it is very unlikely you will develop a new cancer because of this infection. Because you have had an operation to take your cervix away there is no risk of you getting a new cancer in the cervix. And, the risk of cervical cancer coming back elsewhere isn't greater if you have HPV in the vagina.

There isn't a treatment for HPV infection. Most HPV infections are cleared by our body's own defence system, the immune system. Smoking can affect the immune system and interfere with our ability to clear HPV. So, if you smoke, giving up may help your body to overcome the virus. It is also important that you continue to have regular smears and examinations as follow up after your cancer treatment.