The DNA test that detects HPV in women is highly useful for confirming or ruling out the presence of the virus.
Here are the steps to perform this test:
- The specialist (usually a gynecologist) is responsible for slowly and carefully inserting a medical instrument into the vagina, called a speculum.
- For this, the position the patient must take is to lie down on a special examination table.
- Then, she must place her feet on two small platforms so that the groin area is elevated and free for total freedom when checking the current condition of the cervical area.
- And finally, several samples are collected that will be subsequently analyzed in a laboratory, whether internal or external to the health center.
It is necessary to mention that although there are currently different variants of HPV that pose a danger to the patient, this test seeks to find indications of strains 16 and 18, which are the main causes of cervical cancer.
Índice
Who needs an HPV test?
An HPV test is recommended for women in the following scenarios or characteristics:
- Women between the ages of 30 and 60 who also have a Pap smear at least every five years as the maximum waiting time.
- Women of any age who have shown abnormal results in Pap smears or other medical exams.
Once both the HPV test and the Pap smear have been performed, the healthcare specialist will interpret the values shown in the results.
The goal will be to determine whether these are negative (perfectly normal) or, on the contrary, positive (abnormal and requiring further analysis along with the appropriate treatment).
Preparation before the HPV test in women
To achieve smooth progress during the HPV test in women, the following recommendations are provided:
- Refrain from using tampons before and during the test.
- Do not use any type of vaginal medication at the time of the test.
- Avoid sexual intercourse before visiting the specialist.
- Avoid using vaginal douches before the process.
It’s important to add that the HPV test in women poses no risk to the patient, as only mild side effects such as bleeding or vaginal discharge might be experienced.
These were some tips to help you know how to deal with HPV. However, there is much more you need to do if you really want to get rid of HPV and warts forever.
What you need to do is GET RID OF THE ROOT of the problem.
For that reason, I recommend you to look into Dr. Kirkland's story and how he was able to cure HPV and get rid of warts for good.
I wish you great success in your recovery!
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean when HPV DNA is detected?
A positive result from the HPV test means that you have a high-risk HPV that might in the future cause cervical cancer.
What is the difference between Pap smear and HPV DNA test?
The difference is that the Pap smear only detects cancerous or precancerous cells in the cervix. On the other hand, the HPV DNA test detects the same papilloma virus in the cells of the cervix.
Sources:
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007534.htm
- https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/11-09-2021-who-recommends-dna-testing-as-a-first-choice-screening-method-for-cervical-cancer-prevention
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hpv-test/about/pac-20394355
Medically reviewed by Dr. Amy Wilson. Dr. Amy Wilson, born in the United States, obtained her medical degree from Lincoln University School of Medicine. Specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, she’s dedicated 15 years to women’s health, becoming a distinguished gynecologist and serving in various U.S. medical institutions.