HPV Screening Can Help Detect Changes Early
Understanding screening and follow-up options can support informed conversations with healthcare professionals and help guide next steps.
Understanding HPV Screening
HPV screening may include Pap testing, HPV testing, or both depending on local medical guidelines, age, and health history.
What Is HPV Screening?
HPV screening may help identify high-risk HPV types or cervical cell changes that could require follow-up evaluation.
Why Screening Matters
Many HPV infections have no symptoms. Screening may help identify changes before more serious issues develop.
Follow-Up Is Important
Healthcare professionals may recommend additional evaluation or monitoring depending on screening results.
Who May Need Screening?
Women 21–29
Pap testing may be recommended at intervals determined by healthcare guidelines.
Women 30–65
Screening may include Pap testing, HPV testing, or co-testing depending on recommendations.
Higher-Risk Individuals
Some individuals may require different screening schedules based on health history or medical factors.
Follow-Up Guidance
A licensed healthcare professional can recommend the most appropriate next steps.
Pap Test vs HPV Test
| Feature | Pap Test | HPV Test |
|---|---|---|
| What it checks | Looks for cervical cell changes. | Looks for certain high-risk HPV types. |
| Main purpose | Detects abnormal cell changes. | Detects HPV types associated with higher risk. |
| Who may receive it | Often part of routine cervical screening. | May be recommended depending on age and guidelines. |
After an Abnormal Result
An abnormal result does not automatically mean cancer
Some results simply indicate changes that require monitoring or additional evaluation.
Additional follow-up may be recommended
Healthcare professionals may recommend repeat testing or other evaluations depending on results.
Follow-up matters
Early monitoring and evaluation may help identify changes before they become more serious.
When Should You Speak With a Healthcare Professional?
- You are due for cervical screening
- You received an abnormal result
- You have questions about HPV testing
- You would like more information about screening options
Trusted Educational Sources
Information on this page is informed by recognized public health and educational resources.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Government of Canada HPV Information
- Canadian Cancer Society
Frequently Asked Questions
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