Our services
HPV testing
Overview
Find out whether you carry a high-risk HPV infection, so you can protect your cervical health. HPV testing can show whether you have a type of human papillomavirus that increases your risk of cervical cancer. The specialists at Minerva Women's Healthcare care for the full range of conditions that affect women's health, including HPV infections, and treat every patient with respect and compassion. Find out why we may recommend HPV testing at your next appointment. Schedule your visit by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.
At a glance
- HPV is a very common virus. Most people who are sexually active will have it at some point
- An HPV test looks for high-risk types of the virus that can lead to cervical cancer
- A positive result does not mean you have cancer. Most infections clear up on their own
- The test uses the same cell sample as a Pap smear and takes only a few minutes
- The HPV vaccine can protect you against the most harmful types of the virus
What is HPV?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus. There are many types. Some cause genital warts, and others can cause abnormal cervical cells or cancer. Two types, 16 and 18, cause most HPV-related cancers. HPV is highly contagious. It spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal or oral sex. It is not spread through casual contact, such as a kiss on the cheek, or by sharing toilets or towels. Condoms lower your risk but do not remove it entirely.
What does an HPV test show?
HPV testing does not show whether you have cervical cancer. Instead, it tells your doctor whether you have a type of HPV that raises your risk of developing it. This helps decide what to do next to protect your health, which may include closer monitoring with Pap tests, a colposcopy, or treatment of abnormal or precancerous cells.
Who should have an HPV test?
HPV testing is most often advised for women aged 30 and over, often together with a Pap smear. It may also be recommended at any age if you have had an abnormal Pap test result, such as atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS). Your doctor will advise what is right for you based on your age and history.
What does a positive result mean?
Having HPV does not mean you have cervical cancer. Many HPV infections clear on their own within a year or two. It can take 10 years or more for cervical changes to develop into cancer, which is why your doctor may recommend watchful waiting and close follow-up rather than immediate treatment. If your test is positive, we will explain what it means for you and plan the next steps together. It does not mean that you or your partner was unfaithful, since HPV can stay dormant for many years before it is detected.
What happens during the test?
HPV testing is normally done at the same time as a Pap smear. Your doctor gently places a speculum in the vagina and collects a small sample of cells from your cervix with a soft brush. The same sample can be used for both tests. It takes only a few minutes, and the sample is sent to the laboratory.
How should I prepare?
Little preparation is needed. To help make sure your results are accurate:
- Avoid sex for two days before the test
- Avoid douches, spermicidal foams, vaginal creams and similar products for two days before
- Try not to book your test during your period, as blood can make the result harder to read
Protecting yourself against HPV
- Get the HPV vaccine. It is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, but ask us whether it can still help you
- Attend your regular cervical screening
- Use condoms
- Avoid smoking, which raises your risk of cervical cancer
Common questions
Can HPV be treated?
There is no treatment for the virus itself, but the body clears it in most cases. We treat the conditions it can cause, such as genital warts and abnormal cervical cells.
Does a positive HPV test mean I will get cancer?
No. Most women with HPV never develop cervical cancer, especially with regular screening and follow-up.
Is the test painful?
Most women feel only mild pressure or discomfort, as with a Pap smear.
Do men get tested for HPV?
There is no routine HPV test for men. Talk to your doctor if you or your partner has any concerns.
Ready to book your HPV test?
Schedule your visit at Minerva Women's Healthcare online or by calling our office. It takes about a minute and no account is needed.
