Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that can affect both men and women. There are more than 100 different types of HPV, and some of them can lead to health problems such as genital warts and cervical cancer. HPV testing is a way to detect the presence of the virus in the body and can be used to help diagnose and prevent these health problems.
Types of HPV
Certain types of HPV cause cervical cancer, especially types 16 and 18. These types of HPV are considered “high risk” and are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. Other types of HPV, known as ‘low risk’, can cause genital warts but do not usually lead to cancer. Regular screening for cervical cancer, including HPV testing, can help detect the presence of high-risk HPV types and potentially detect cervical cancer early before it becomes more advanced.
Test methods
There are two types of HPV tests: the HPV DNA test and the Pap test (also called Pap smear). The HPV DNA test looks for the genetic material of the virus in cervical cells, while the Pap test looks for changes in the cervical cells caused by HPV. Both tests can be used alone or as part of a cervical cancer screening.
Risks of cervical cancer
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women start with this screening for cervical cancer at age 21, regardless of their sexual history. Women between the ages of 21 and 29 should have a Pap smear every three years. If a Pap smear is performed in conjunction with an HPV test, screening can be performed every five years for women between the ages of 30 and 65.
HPV testing for men
It is important to note that HPV testing is not recommended for men because there is no FDA-approved test for HPV in men. Men with HPV can pass it on to their sexual partners, but are generally not at risk of developing health problems related to the virus. Men who have symptoms such as genital warts should consult a health care provider.
HPV vaccinations
It is also important to note that HPV vaccinations can help prevent cervical cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children ages 11 and 12 get it HPV vaccineand it is also recommended for teens and young adults through age 26 who have not yet received it.
It is important to understand that an HPV test can only detect the presence of the virus and does not determine whether a woman will develop cervical cancer. A positive HPV test result does not mean that a woman has cervical cancer and does not indicate the severity of the infection. It simply means that the woman has been exposed to the virus and further testing is needed to determine if abnormal cells are present in the cervix.
Positive HPV test results
If an HPV test is positive, women are typically recommended to undergo a colposcopy, a procedure that examines the cervix more closely. During a colposcopy, a healthcare provider will use a special microscope to examine the cervix and take a small sample of cervical tissue (a biopsy) if necessary. This procedure can help determine if there are abnormal cells present that need to be removed.
In some cases, women with positive HPV test results may need closer monitoring instead of undergoing a colposcopy. This is called ‘watchful waiting’ or ‘active surveillance’ and is usually only recommended for women at low risk of cervical cancer. Active surveillance aims to detect cervical cancer at an early stage if it does develop. Women who are monitored more closely will need follow-up tests, such as Pap smears or HPV tests, at regular intervals.
In addition to regular cervical cancer screening, women should practice safe sex and limit the number of sexual partners they have. Consistent and correct use of condoms can also help reduce the risk of HPV.
Risks of being tested
It is important to note that HPV testing is not recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and have had their cervix removed as part of the surgery, assuming they have no history of cervical cancer. This is because cervical cancer can no longer develop in these women.
Should I get an HPV test?
HPV testing is an essential tool for the early detection of cervical cancer. Regular screening for cervical cancer is recommended for women aged 21 and older. If an HPV test is positive, women should contact their healthcare provider and undergo further testing if necessary. Regular cervical cancer screenings, safe sex practices, and limiting the number of sexual partners can help protect women’s health and prevent cervical cancer. It is also essential that women have an open conversation with their healthcare providers about their individual needs and risks and ensure they receive appropriate screenings and vaccinations.