HPV Test-Why am I having this test?

HPV (human papillomavirus) refers to a group of about 100 viruses. Many of these viruses cause growths on, in, or around the genitals. Most HPV viruses cause infections that usually go away without treatment.

The HPV test checks for high-risk types (strains) of HPV. Strains 16 and 18 are considered the most high-risk for cancer. If you have strain 16 or 18 HPV and it is not treated, it can increase your risk for cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, or anus.

HPV can be found in both males and females. However, the HPV test is used to screen for increased cancer risk in females:

• Who are 30–65 years old.
• Who have an abnormal Pap test.
• Who have been treated for an abnormal Pap test in the past.
• Who have been treated for a high-risk HPV infection in the past.

If you are a woman older than 30, you may have the HPV test at the same time as a pelvic exam and Pap test.

What is being tested?

This test checks for the DNA (genetic) strands of the HPV infection. This test is also called the HPV DNA test.

What kind of sample is taken?

This test requires a sample of cells from the cervix. This will be done using a small cotton swab, plastic spatula, or brush. This sample is often collected during a pelvic exam, when you are lying on your back on an exam table with feet in footrests (stirrups).

How do I prepare for this test?

• Starting 24–48 hours before your test, or as told by your health care provider, do not:
  • Take a bath.
  • Have sex.
  • Douche.
• Schedule the test for a day when you are not menstruating. If you are menstruating on the day of the test, you may need to reschedule.
• You will be asked to urinate right before the test.

How are the results reported?

Your test results will be reported as either positive or negative for HPV. If you have a positive result, the results will indicate which HPV strain you are positive for.

What do the results mean?

A negative HPV test result means that no HPV was found. This means it is very likely that you do not have HPV.

A positive HPV test result means that you have HPV.

• If your results show the presence of any high-risk strains, you may have a higher risk of developing anal or cervical cancer if your infection is not treated.
• If any low-risk HPV strains are found, it is not likely that you have an increased risk for cancer.

Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.

Questions to ask your health care provider

Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:

• When will my results be ready?
• How will I get my results?
• What are my treatment options?
• What other tests do I need?
• What are my next steps?

Summary

• The human papillomavirus (HPV) test is used to look for high-risk types of HPV infection. This test is done only for females.
• HPV types 16 and 18 are considered high-risk types of HPV. If untreated, these types of infections increase your risk for cancer of the cervix or anus.
• A negative HPV test result means that no HPV was found, and it is very likely that you do not have HPV.
• A positive HPV test result means that you have an HPV infection.