HPV testing looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus that can cause precancerous cervical changes. It is gradually replacing the Pap test as the main screening test because it identifies risk earlier.
This guide explains who should have an HPV test in Québec, how often, what happens during the test and what positive and negative results mean.
Key takeaways
- Where the test is available, HPV screening is recommended every 5 years for women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 65 who have no symptoms and are covered by Québec public insurance.
- Screening remains relevant after HPV vaccination and even without recent sexual activity.
- Immunocompromised people are generally screened every 3 years.
- A clinician collects the sample from the cervix. Routine home self-sampling is not yet available in Québec.
- A positive result does not mean cancer or prove a recent infection.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, abnormal discharge, persistent pelvic pain or pain during intercourse requires diagnostic assessment, not screening.
What is an HPV test, and how is it different from a Pap test?
An HPV test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause precancerous cervical changes. It is gradually replacing the Pap test as the main screening test for cervical cancer because it identifies risk earlier.
Who should get an HPV test in Québec?
Where the test is available, HPV screening is recommended every 5 years for women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 65 who:
- Have no symptoms.
- Are covered by Québec public insurance.
Screening remains relevant after HPV vaccination and even without recent sexual activity. After age 65, the decision depends on previous results and individual circumstances.
When is a personalized screening schedule needed?
Some people need a different schedule or specialized follow-up instead of the standard 5-year interval.
- Immunocompromised people: Screening is generally recommended every 3 years.
- After a normal Pap test: The first HPV test is usually recommended 3 years later.
- After a normal Pap test for an immunocompromised person: The first HPV test is usually recommended 1 year later.
- Previous cervical precancer, cancer, abnormal results or cervical procedures: Specialized follow-up is needed.
- After a hysterectomy: Testing depends on whether the cervix remains and on the person’s history.
What happens during an HPV test?
A clinician gently inserts a speculum and uses a small brush to collect cells from the cervix. The sample takes only a few minutes and requires no fasting or anesthesia.
Does an HPV test hurt?
Pressure, discomfort or light spotting may occur.
Can you do an HPV test at home?
Not yet in Québec. Routine home self-sampling is not yet available in Québec; the sample is collected by a health professional.
What do HPV test results mean?
Negative HPV test
A negative HPV test means no high-risk HPV requiring specific follow-up was detected. If you remain eligible, the next test is usually due in 5 years.
Positive HPV test
A positive HPV test does not mean cancer or prove a recent infection. The same sample may be examined by cytology. Depending on the findings, the test may be repeated, or colposcopy and a small biopsy may be recommended.
What are the benefits, limits and possible harms of HPV screening?
Screening lowers the risk of developing or dying from cervical cancer by allowing precancerous changes to be treated, but no screening test detects every cancer.
Benefits
- Lowers the risk of developing or dying from cervical cancer.
- Allows precancerous changes to be treated.
Limits and possible harms
- No screening test detects every cancer.
- A positive result can cause anxiety and lead to more testing.
- Some changes would have resolved on their own, so screening can occasionally lead to overdiagnosis or treatment. Treatment implications, including for a future pregnancy, should be discussed.
When should you not wait for screening?
HPV testing is screening, not a test to explain symptoms. The following require diagnostic assessment:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after intercourse.
- Abnormal discharge.
- Persistent pelvic pain.
- Pain during intercourse.
Tell the clinic about previous abnormal results, colposcopy and gynecologic surgery.
How Bina Medical Clinic
can help
At Bina Clinic, we can confirm eligibility, review previous results, arrange the sample and ensure appropriate follow-up. The goal is screening at the right time with a clear explanation of every result.
Related: Preventative Health Review · Results Follow-Up
Official sources
This article provides general information and does not replace a personalized medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment.
