HPV Testing
HPV testing is an essential screening service for cervical health. It searches for evidence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the body and is usually done alongside or following a Pap smear. Early detection helps your healthcare team take timely steps to protect your cervical and reproductive health.
What is HPV?
HPV is a common viral infection that can affect the skin, genital area and throat. Individuals with HPV often do not experience symptoms, but the virus can cause development of oral lesions, genital warts or cervical cancer.
HPV can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. Thus, it can be spread through penetrative or non-penetrative sexual activities, making it the most common sexually transmitted infection.
Vaccines can be administered to both men and women to best help protect against harmful strains of HPV most likely to cause genital warts, cervical and anal cancer.
What Is an HPV Test?
An HPV test for women checks cervical cells for high-risk strains of human papillomavirus. It helps detect infections that could cause abnormal cell changes or increase the risk of cervical cancer. The test can be done on its own (primary HPV testing) or together with a Pap smear (co-testing) for comprehensive screening.
Why HPV Testing Matters
- High-risk HPV can affect your health: Certain high-risk HPV can cause different types of cancers, including cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, and throat cancers. Regular HPV testing helps identify virus types early, giving your healthcare provider the information needed to protect your health.
- Early detection makes a difference: HPV testing and regular screening help catch potential issues early, when treatment is most effective.
- Informed health decisions: Knowing your results allows you to make informed decisions about follow-up, monitoring, or treatment if needed.
Who Should Get Tested & When
Normally, the HPV screening will be done concurrently with a Pap smear for women over the age of 30. However, while a Pap smear is done every three years, a cervical HPV test is recommended to be done once every five years.
Should you receive a positive test result, you may need another HPV test in one year, or a colposcopy to take a closer look at your cervix.
Women with abnormal Pap results may find HPV testing useful, as it can reveal whether HPV is behind the changes in cervical cells.
Ultimately, the frequency of testing depends on your age, past results, and risk factors. At Eden Women’s Health, we can personalise your HPV testing schedule.
What to Expect During the Test
During the HPV testing, our healthcare team will talk you through how the test will be done, and once you are comfortable and have given consent:
- Insertion of a speculum into your vagina allows for a clear view of your cervix. You may feel some pressure in the pelvic area.
- Our team will also use a soft brush or spatula to collect samples of your cervical cells. This usually is not painful, but you may experience some discomfort.
- Once we have collected the samples needed, we will remove the speculum gently and leave you to get dressed.
Lastly, the cervical cells are then sent to the laboratory for analysis to detect high-risk cancer-causing HPV strains. Early detection of harmful HPV strains using HPV testing gives you a head start in stopping the development of cervical cancer.
How should I prepare for a HPV test?
To get the most accurate and reliable results, we recommend you to:
- Not have intercourse for 2 days before the test
- Not to use tampons, vaginal creams, lubricants etc for 2 days before the test
What to Expect During the Test
During the HPV testing, our healthcare team will talk you through how the test will be done, and once you are comfortable and have given consent:
- Insertion of a speculum into your vagina allows for a clear view of your cervix. You may feel some pressure in the pelvic area.
- Our team will also use a soft brush or spatula to collect samples of your cervical cells. This usually is not painful, but you may experience some discomfort.
- Once we have collected the samples needed, we will remove the speculum gently and leave you to get dressed.
Lastly, the cervical cells are then sent to the laboratory for analysis to detect high-risk cancer-causing HPV strains. Early detection of harmful HPV strains using HPV testing gives you a head start in stopping the development of cervical cancer.
How should I prepare for a HPV test?
To get the most accurate and reliable results, we recommend you to:
- Not have intercourse for 2 days before the test
- Not to use tampons, vaginal creams, lubricants etc for 2 days before the test
Understanding the Results
A negative HPV screening result means no high-risk virus was detected. You should keep up with routine screenings as advised.
On the other hand, a positive result indicates the presence of high-risk HPV, but it does not mean you have cancer. It serves as a signal for closer monitoring, such as a Pap test or colposcopy.
Staying on top of follow-up care is crucial because early detection and regular HPV testing not only protect your cervical health but also prevent serious health problems down the line.
Who Benefits from HPV Testing (Conditions or Situations We Support)
HPV testing is a simple yet effective way to monitor cervical health and catch changes early. It’s for women who are:
- 30+ years old, seeking routine cervical cancer screening
- With prior abnormal pap or cervical cell changes
- Planning pregnancies or starting a family
- Wanting preventive care and assurance for long-term health
- With HPV-related factors (sexual history, weakened immune system, etc.)
Why Choose Us for HPV Testing
We provide an HPV test in Singapore with an experienced healthcare team in a supportive and professional environment. Our services are designed to guide you through the process and provide clear information.
Here’s what our HPV testing includes:
- Experienced women’s health specialists trained in cervical cancer screening
- Comprehensive care, including testing, follow-up recommendations, and counselling
- Clear communication, private, respectful, and supportive environment
- Flexible testing options: co-testing or standalone HPV test
- Personalised screening plan based on age, history, and risk factors
FAQ
1. What is an HPV test — is it different from a Pap smear?
A Pap test looks for abnormal or cancerous cervical cells, but it does not detect HPV. HPV testing, in contrast, checks for high-risk HPV strains that could increase the risk of cervical cancer.
2. Does a positive HPV result mean I have cancer?
- No, a positive HPV result does not automatically mean you have cancer. It only means you have a high-risk type of HPV that could increase your risk of developing cervical cancer. Further testing and follow-up may be needed.
3. What happens if HPV is detected? What are the next steps?
- Based on your results, your healthcare provider may suggest further tests, such as a follow-up Pap smear or a consultation with a colposcopy specialist.
4. Can I have an HPV test during my period?
- Yes, it’s possible to have your HPV test during your period. However, your healthcare professional may get a more accurate sample if the test is done when you are not menstruating.
5. Is HPV testing safe and painful? Are there any side effects?
- Yes, HPV testing is safe. You may feel some mild discomfort while cells are being collected from the cervix, and a small amount of light bleeding can occur afterward for some women.
Schedule An Appointment
The HPV test is an important test that helps prevent cervical cancer in women. Rest assured that our gynaecologists at Eden Women’s Health are experienced in this procedure and will provide the best support and personalised care for all your needs. Schedule an appointment with us today to take your first step in preventing cervical cancer.