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Test for HPV

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is an infection that is passed by skin-to-skin contact. There are over 100 different strains of HPV, each causing different symptoms. There are over 30 strains of HPV that affect the genital area and are considered sexually transmitted; these strains are spread by skin-to-skin contact including oral, anal or vaginal sex. HPV is very common in sexually active people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at least 50 percent of sexually active people will acquire HPV at some point. Most people with HPV will experience no symptoms, have no negative side effects, and will clear the infection from their body within two years.

  1. Low-Risk Strains

    • Some strains of sexually transmitted HPV cause genital warts; these strains are referred to as low-risk. Genital warts are flesh-colored growth on the vulva, cervix, penis, scrotum or thigh, as well as in or around the vagina and anus. Genital warts are usually painless but can be removed by a doctor if they are uncomfortable or unpleasant. There is no test for low-risk strains of HPV.

    High-Risk Strains

    • Some strains of sexually transmitted HPV can eventually lead to cervical cancer, and less commonly cancer of the vulva, vagina, anus, and penis; these strains are called high risk. Cervical cancer causing HPV can first cause abnormal cell growth on the cervix. These cervical changes can be detected on a Pap test, conducted as part of a woman's regular gynecological exam. Following an abnormal Pap test, a doctor may take additional steps to remove the abnormal cells, preventing cervical cancer from developing. High-risk HPV can also be detected on HPV tests for some women.

    HPV Test

    • The HPV test is only approved for use in women who meet certain conditions. Because HPV is so common and often goes away on its own, the test is not approved for men or for all women. If a woman has an unclear Pap test result or if she is over the age of 30, her doctor may do a HPV test on the cells of her cervix, after or in addition to the Pap test.

    Additional Testing

    • If a woman over 30 has both a negative Pap test and HPV test, she can repeat testing in three years. Women with a positive HPV test but normal Pap can repeat the tests in one year. Women with an abnormal Pap test should always have a colposcopy exam to ensure prevention or early detection and treatment of cervical cancer. For women under 30, the CDC recommends Pap tests three years after first sexual intercourse or age 21, whichever comes first. Your doctor will tell you how often you should return for Pap tests.

    Prevention

    • The best way to prevent HPV is to abstain from all sexual activity. If you are sexually active, you can reduce your risk of getting HPV by reducing your number of partners and using a latex or polyurethane condom or barrier (like a dental dam).

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