Listen
Print: How does the doctor test for HPV?
The doctor rubs a small swab against your cervix and puts the swab in a tube of special liquid. This tube goes to a lab. If the lab finds HPV in the liquid, your doctor will know what HPV type you have.
If the type of HPV you have is a type that causes cancer, your doctor may want to perform another type of test, called a colposcopy. (A colposcope is a special magnifying lens that is used to look at your cervix.) The doctor will cut a small bit of tissue from your cervix and check it for signs of cancer.
At this point, there is not a way to test men for HPV. If you have warts on your penis, talk to your doctor about having them removed and alert your sexual partner that you may have HPV.
Next: Treatment
Source
HPV Testing in the Evaluation of the Minimally Abnormal Papanicolaou Smear by BS Apgar, M.D., M.S., and G Brotzman, M.D. (American Family Physician May 15, 1999, http://www.aafp.org/afp/990515ap/2794.html)
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 12/10
Created: 05/99
