Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test
Reviewed
An HPV test screens for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in cervical cells. It is used to assess the risk of cervical precancer and cancer.
Preparation and collection
No special preparation is needed for an HPV test alone. If combined with a Pap test, avoid vaginal sex, douching, and vaginal medications for 2 days before.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- A positive HPV test does not mean you have precancer or cancer.
- A negative test does not guarantee you will never develop cervical cancer.
- Some HPV infections clear on their own without causing problems.
What to do next
If you receive a screen-positive result, your healthcare provider will evaluate your risk and may recommend a colposcopy or more frequent testing. If screen-negative, continue routine screening as scheduled.
Evidence source
U.S. National Library of Medicine: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test