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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test

An HPV test screens for high-risk viral infections that can lead to cervical precancer or cancer.

What is an HPV test?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses. While most are harmless, high-risk HPV can cause cervical, anal, oropharyngeal, vulvar, vaginal, and penile cancers. The test looks for DNA left by the virus in your vagina or cervix.

Why do I need an HPV test?

You may need an HPV test to screen for cervical cancer if you have had an abnormal Pap test or are between the ages of 30 and 65. Because HPV is common in the 21-29 age group but often clears on its own, some experts recommend starting testing at age 25. You are at higher risk if you have a weakened immune system, a history of cervical cancer or precancer, smoke, or were exposed to DES before birth.

What happens during an HPV test?

The sample can be collected by your provider or by yourself:

  • Provider collection: You lie on an exam table, and a speculum is used to widen the vagina. A small brush or swab is used to collect cells from the cervix.
  • Self-collection: You use a provided swab or brush to collect cells from the vaginal walls in a private space, then return the sample to your provider.

Preparing for the Test

There are no specific preparations for an HPV test. However, if you are having an HPV/Pap cotest, avoid the following for two days prior:

  • Vaginal sex
  • Douching
  • Using vaginal medicines, spermicidal foam, jelly, or cream

Understanding Results

  • Negative/Normal: High-risk HPV was not found.
  • Positive/Abnormal: DNA from a high-risk HPV was found. This does not mean you have cancer, but it indicates an infection that increases your risk. Your provider may suggest a colposcopy for a more detailed examination.

Prevention

The HPV vaccine is safe and effective at preventing infection with the most high-risk types of HPV. The CDC recommends the vaccine for 11 to 12-year-olds, though it can be given as early as age 9.

Frequently Asked Questions

positive result means DNA from a high‑risk HPV type was detected, but it does not guarantee cancer will develop; many infections clear spontaneously. Vaccination is still beneficial because the current vaccines protect against the most common oncogenic types (e.g., 16, 18) and can prevent new infections with other high‑risk strains you may not yet carry.
Self‑collected vaginal swabs have been shown in large studies to be nearly as sensitive as clinician‑collected cervical samples for detecting high‑risk HPV. The key is to follow the kit instructions precisely and send the specimen to a certified laboratory promptly. If the test is positive, your provider will still perform a clinician‑collected sample for cytology and possible colposcopy.
negative high‑risk HPV result with an abnormal Pap (often ASC-US or LSIL) usually indicates a low immediate risk of precancer. In most guidelines, you would be re‑tested with a repeat Pap in 12 months rather than proceeding directly to colposcopy, unless other risk factors are present.
If your HPV test is positive for a high‑risk type and your Pap smear is also abnormal, guidelines usually recommend a colposcopic examination within 3 months. Some providers may act sooner (4–6 weeks) if the Pap shows high‑grade changes (HSIL) or if you have risk factors such as immunosuppression.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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