There are over 100 different strains of the HPV virus. About five different strains of HPV are responsible for cervical cancer. Five other strains can cause genital warts and have a low risk of turning into cancer.
How is the HPV Test Done?
The HPV test is often performed at the same time as a Pap smear and involves the same technique of taking a sample of cervical cells.Who Can Have the HPV Test?
Right now, women over 30 are offered the HPV test to be done along with a routine Pap smear. If a woman under 30 has an abnormal Pap smear, then an HPV test may be ordered. Remember, you can request to have the HPV done.HPV Test Results
Test results can take up to a few weeks to come back. If you do not hear from your doctor within a month, call and ask for your results. Just because you haven't heard anything from your doctor doesn't always mean your resulta came back okay. There is a chance your results may have mistkenly been overlooked.HPV test results come back as normal or abnormal. If the HPV test results show you have HPV, then your doctor may order a colposcopy, a procedure where the cervix can be viewed better and more testing can be done. At this time, a cervical biopsy may be ordered. Keep in mind that HPV is very common, and not all types of HPV will cause cancer.
If the test showed no HPV infection, you probably do not have an any precancerous changes on your cerxix and your cervical cancer risk is relatively low.
Is there an HPV Test for Men?
At this time there is no HPV test for men. A doctor can visually examine a man's genitals and surrounding areas for genital warts, a symptom of HPV. Many times men do not present any symptoms of HPV.Does Insurance Cover the HPV Test?
Most insurances cover the HPV test. Check ahead of time with your provider to be sure.Out of pocket expenses for those without coverage can expect to pay between $50 to $200 for the test.
Source: Digene Corp. hpvtest.com;Accessed 06/21/06
