🌿 HPV Test (Cervical Swab)
A key test to detect human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a common virus linked to cervical cancer.

🔍 What is it?

HPV is a group of viruses, some types of which can cause cervical cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer. The test detects high-risk HPV types in cells collected from the cervix.

🧪 What does it measure?

• Presence of high-risk HPV DNA in cervical cells
• Identifies HPV types most commonly linked to cervical cancer (e.g., types 16 and 18)
• Helps assess risk for cervical cell changes requiring further investigation

🔎 Note:

• HPV infection is very common and often clears naturally without symptoms
• A positive test does not mean cancer but indicates the need for further monitoring or tests
• Usually done alongside a Pap smear (cervical cytology)

❓ Why might I need it?

You may be advised to have this test if you experience or are due for:

• 📅 Routine cervical cancer screening (usually for women aged 25–64)
• 🔍 Abnormal Pap smear results needing further evaluation
• 👩‍⚕️ Monitoring after previous cervical abnormalities
• 🚺 Concern about HPV infection or risk factors such as multiple sexual partners

🧬 Conditions it can help detect:

• High-risk HPV infection
• Precancerous cervical cell changes
• Cervical cancer risk assessment

🩺 How is it done?

• A cervical swab is taken during a pelvic exam by a healthcare professional
• Cells are collected from the cervix and tested for HPV DNA
• ⏳ Results typically available within 1–2 weeks

💷 Typical Private Cost in the UK:
£80–£150 depending on provider and test package

✅ Commonly Combined With:

• Pap smear (cervical cytology) for cell abnormality detection
• Full sexual health screening in some cases

📚 References:

• NHS – Cervical Screening Programme
• British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (BSCCP)
• World Health Organization (WHO) – HPV and cervical cancer