I am a 24F who tested positive for HPV exactly one year ago from a Pap smear. I had AS-CUS abnormal cells which triggered automatic testing for HPV E6/E7 mRNA and was positive. I was also fully vaccinated at 21. 

I had a follow-up Pap smear this month and the results were that the cells are normal. As there were no abnormalities, HPV testing was not triggered automatically and my doctor did not order the test separately. 

Does the fact that my cells are now normal mean that the HPV infection has cleared? I know that some people have normal paps and are still HPV+. I am struggling to understand whether I need to disclose to a potential new partner, and even what to say.  

Thank you. 

Before I address your questions, congratulations for getting vaccinated that will prevent nearly all future infections with the HPV types found in the vaccine.  In addition there is soft evidence that it may enhance resolution of infection and prevent recurrence.

The situation you describe is what is expected- nearly all HPV infections will clear and become non-detectable over the 6-24 months following detection of infection.  At that time unless there is a recurrence (unlikely for you) the infection is considered non-infectious to partners although tiny amounts of DNA can be found present in cells using highly specialized scientific research tools.  It is more likely than not that you would not have detectable HPV DNA but if that is a concern, you could ask your doctor to do the test using a vaginal swab (a full pelvic exam in not required for the HPV test).  

Regarding disclosure.  Disclosure is always a good thing but all too often it is misunderstood and has the potential to create tensions or worse in relationships.  We do not feel strongly that disclosure is required since well over 80% of unvaccinated person will have or have had HPV in the past.  You don't mention your current relationship status.  If you are on an ongoing relationship, what's done is done and your partner would have been exposed if HPV were present.  On the other hand, in new relationships there are a variety of ways to approach the issue.  One is to ask partners about past STIs and whether they have been vaccinated for HPV or not (you would be able to reciprocate, stating that you had an abnormal PAP smear which was now normal and had been vaccinated).

I hope these introductory comments are helpful.  AGAIN, I strongly encourage you to read our discussion of similar problems on previous posts- there are hundreds of them and that is the reason that we make them available.  Just look for posts with HPV, warts, or disclosure in the titles.  Posts from other women may be most helpful.  EWH