Published on: 1 August, 2023
Read Time: 3 min
HPV, also known as Human Papillomavirus, is a common sexually transmitted infection. In many cases, an infection will clear on its own, without a person knowing they were infected with it. However, because some strains of the virus can lead to cervical cancer, HPV tests remain an important tool for identifying the cervical cancer early, when it is most treatable. HPV tests screen for the types of HPV that are linked to cervical cancer.
When is the right time to consider HPV testing?
HPV testing is often conducted in conjunction with Pap tests, which screen for abnormal cells in your cervix, depending on your age and personal health history. You should always discuss with your provider which tests are most appropriate for you. And, remember, even if you have been vaccinated against HPV, it is still necessary to have cervical cancer screenings.
For women under the age of 30, HPV testing is not recommended for women at average risk, as most infections will clear on their own. It is important during that time (between the ages of 21 and 29), that women of average risk are screened for other forms of cervical cancer using the Pap test every three years. For women with a history of cervical cancer or past abnormal Pap tests, those recommendations may vary.
For women at average risk between the ages of 30 and 65, it is recommended that women should have a Pap test and HPV test together (called co-testing) once every five years. If the co-test is unavailable, Pap testing should occur every 3 years and HPV testing should occur alone every 5 years.
At age 65 and older, screening is no longer recommended if you have no history of cervical changes, or within the past 10 years have had three consecutive negative pap tests and two consecutive negative Pap tests, or two consecutive negative co-tests.
The recommendations for cervical cancer screening were updated in December 2025 to include a recommendation that women at average risk between the ages of 30-65 be offered the option to collect their own samples for cervical cancer screenings. You can discuss this option with your provider to learn more.
To learn more about HPV and other sexually transmitted infections, check out:
Our passionate team at Advantia Health puts your well-being first, ready to address your concerns and provide compassionate care. We believe that knowledge is a powerful tool, and we are committed to equipping you with accurate information. Whether you seek answers about pregnancy, menopause, or gynecological issues, we are here to support you.
(Resource: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/infographics/cervical-cancer-screening)
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