Did you know? Human Papilloma Virus infects almost 80% of the women in their lifetime. HPV is a hidden and very contagious virus. HPV Virus can be transmitted from unsafe sexual intercourse with an infected individual. Early Stage recognition and treatment help to avoid serious illness, and if not treated lead to severe Health Complications. This indicates the importance of early HPV testing in women.
In this blog, we will discuss with you everything about an HPV test, why you should get one & how to read the results. So, keep reading till the end.
What is an HPV test?
Before we learn about the HPV test. Let us understand what is human papillomavirus? Human Papillomavirus(HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It causes cervical cancer which occurs during intercourse and is mainly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Getting an HPV test will help you to detect the virus early and receive timely treatment.
There are more than 100 types of HPV. Some cause warts on your face, hands, or feet. Others cause warts on the genitals. Few high-risk HPV types cause cancer and HPV 16 and HPV 18 are the primary causes of cervical cancer.
The purpose of an HPV test is to identify high-risk strains. A sample is taken from your cervix during an HPV test, and this sample is examined to determine the presence of HPV virus.
Typically, the human body can combat and eliminate the HPV infection within a few years without having any adverse effects on the body. In certain cases, Cervical cancer may develop as a result of the HPV virus infection. The fact is that both males and females can be infected with the HPV Virus.
Symptoms Of Human Papillomavirus Infection In Women
Most HPV Infections in women do not show signs and symptoms, but some HPV Strains cause noticeable symptoms, the most common of which is genital warts.
● Small pink coloured, or red growths in the genital area.
● Warts appear as a flat, raised, or cauliflower-like bump.
● It may cause itching or mild pain.
● Vaginal bleeding (between periods or after intercourse).
● Pelvic pain
● Pain during intercourse.
● Abnormal vaginal discharge (may be watery, bloody, or have a strong odour).
HPV tests can help in early detection and prevention with Routine Pap smear screening, although HPV infections often don’t show any signs and symptoms.
Why is the Human Papillomavirus Test Useful for Women?
HPV tests play a crucial role in women’s health to detect early-stage infections and prevent the development of cervical cancer and other cancers.
● Detects Cervical Cancer Early - The early test identifies high-risk forms of HPV, which might lead to cervical cancer. Identifying it early ensures immediate treatment.
● Assists with Treatment and Monitoring - If you are found positive, your physician can follow up on your condition and recommend additional tests or treatment
● Avoids Serious Medical Problems - Early detection of HPV-related conditions by regular testing prevents them from becoming severe
● Experts Prescribe It - Leading health agencies recommend routine HPV testing for women. It is a valuable element of medical care.
● Safe and Painless - The test is easy, fast, and painless. You can be screened without any fear
Who Should Be Tested for HPV?
HPV Test is not required for all women and however, some need to undergo the Human Papillomavirus test regularly. Regular screening detects HPV early & helps in preventing complicated health issues, and keeps you healthy.
● If you are aged 30-65 at 5 - 10 year intervals
● If you had an abnormal Pap test, testing is necessary
● If you ever had an STI, you should test for HPV
● If you have unprotected sex, you might be at risk
● If your immune system is compromised, testing is a good idea
How To Prepare For HPV Test?
Preparing for the HPV test is simpler than it sounds. You should remember these key points and avoid them for a couple of days before your test to get the most accurate results:
● Schedule your test date when you are not having your periods
● Do not use tampons, birth control jelly, foam, or cream or medications in the vagina
● Avoid having intercourse at least 48 hours prior to the test
But are you embarrassed about going to a clinic for an HPV test? You can always go for an
at-home HPV test for women that is discreet, confidential & convenient. You may want to look into the HPV Test for women, which identifies high-risk cancer-causing types & provides expert-reviewed results.
How To Interpret Your Test Results?
Your test results could either be positive or negative. A positive result means that a high-risk cancer-causing HPV strain was detected in your sample (don’t panic, as there is no cancer yet!). On getting a positive result, your doctor might suggest additional tests for cervical cancer, like a colposcopy or cervical biopsy.
A negative test result indicates that you don't have any high-risk HPV types & won't require another test for the next 5 years. It would also be a good idea to get an HPV vaccine if you haven't received one yet for ongoing protection.
Please note that your HPV test results may change over time from positive to negative or vice versa. So, it is a good idea to get regular HPV tests.
Human Papillomavirus Treatment and Prevention
HPV cannot be cured, but you can control and prevent it:
● Regular Checkups: For high-risk HPV, have routine screenings and medical visits
● Medical Procedures: For abnormal cells discovered by doctors, they can cut them out using cryotherapy, laser surgery, or surgery
● Strengthen Immunity: Fight HPV by having a good immune system. Have a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
Prevention of Human Papillomavirus is as follows:
● Get Vaccinated: The HPV vaccine protects you against cancer-causing strains. It is best for preteens, teenagers, and young adults
● Routine Screenings: Regular Pap smears and HPV testing should be done by women
● Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms and have fewer sex partners to reduce your risk
● Stay Healthy: Don't smoke, have a healthy diet, and keep your stress level low to keep your immune system healthy
Final Words
Knowing your HPV status is key to battle against cervical cancer. An HPV Test for women is a strong arsenal that can assist you in detecting this silent enemy & avoiding further complications. So, go ahead & schedule that HPV test that you have been delaying for quite some time now. If you are waiting to get your screening done, please go to a very trusted diagnostic center to get the most accurate results and professional care.
FAQs
1. What does it mean if my HPV test result comes positive?
Having a Positive test result means you have a high-risk type of HPV, the doctors will guide you with what can be done to avoid cervical cancer.
2. What are the signs and symptoms of HPV?
Symptoms are not shown for most HPV Infections, but sometimes you might develop genital warts.
3. Which test is performed for HPV?
Doctors perform an HPV DNA test to detect the HPV virus.
4. How is HPV spread in females?
HPV usually spreads through skin-to-skin contact, with genital HPV transmitted through sexual intercourse or direct contact with infected warts.
5. Can I have cervical cancer if my result turns out to be positive?
No, it is not necessary. Getting a positive result just shows that a high-risk cancer-causing HPV strain was found in your blood. Doctors may prescribe additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
