Understanding HPV test results

Overview

An HPV test checks for the presence of high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) in cells from the cervix. HPV is a very common virus that usually goes away on its own, but some types can cause abnormal cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer if not treated.

Yes, HPV is very common. About 4 out of 5 people will get HPV at some point in their lives.

The HPV test is typically offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 as part of cervical screening. It is not a test for men or people without a cervix.

Symptoms

Causes

Main causes

• HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
• The virus infects the skin cells of the genital area.

Risk factors

• Having multiple sexual partners.
• Having a partner who has had many partners.
• A weakened immune system, such as from HIV or medications after an organ transplant.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have heavy vaginal bleeding or severe pelvic pain, seek emergency care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you receive an abnormal HPV test result, your doctor will explain next steps and may recommend a follow-up test or a colposcopy.
• If you have symptoms like unusual bleeding, make an appointment to discuss them.

Diagnosis

The HPV test is done during a cervical screening (smear test) where a small sample of cells is taken from the cervix and sent to a lab.

Tests that may be done

• HPV test – checks for high-risk types of the virus.
• If the test is positive, a cytology (Pap) test may also be done on the same sample to look for abnormal cells.

What to expect at your appointment

The test is quick and usually not painful, though you may feel a slight scratch. You will get your results by letter or through your healthcare provider. If your result is positive, you will be invited for a follow-up appointment to discuss next steps.

Treatment

There is no treatment for the HPV virus itself. But if it causes abnormal cell changes, those changes can be treated to prevent cancer.

Self-care at home

• Most HPV infections clear up on their own within 1–2 years with no treatment.
• Boosting your immune system by eating well, not smoking, and managing stress may help your body clear the virus.

Medical treatments

If abnormal cells are found, treatments may include a small procedure to remove the abnormal area, such as loop electrical excision (LLETZ) or cryotherapy. These are done under local anesthesia and are usually very effective.

When is surgery considered?

In very rare cases where cell changes are advanced or turn into cancer, surgery may be needed. This is not common with regular screening.

Living with this condition

If you have a positive HPV test, try not to worry. Most HPV goes away on its own. Keep attending your follow-up appointments as recommended.

Lifestyle tips

• Stop smoking – smoking makes it harder for your body to clear HPV.
• Practice safer sex to reduce the risk of getting new HPV infections.

Diet and exercise

Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and getting regular exercise may support your immune system.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A positive test can cause anxiety. It helps to remember that HPV is very common and your body can often clear it. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor if you feel overwhelmed.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of HPV by using condoms (though they do not fully protect as the virus can affect skin not covered by a condom) and by getting the HPV vaccine.

Vaccines

The HPV vaccine is routinely offered to girls and boys aged 12-13 in the UK. It protects against the most common high-risk types. It is most effective before any sexual activity begins.

Screening programmes

Regular cervical screening (every 3–5 years) is the best way to detect HPV and abnormal cells early, long before they could become cancer.

Complications

If left untreated

• If high-risk HPV persists and causes abnormal cell changes that are not monitored or treated, it can lead to cervical cancer.
• Other less common cancers linked to HPV include anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar, and throat cancers.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for most people with HPV is excellent. With regular screening, almost all cervical cancers can be prevented or caught very early when treatment is highly successful. Even if cancer develops, early-stage cervical cancer has a very good survival rate.

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