How is HPV diagnosed?

Each year, a lot of women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and also die because of it.

Yet cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers today. In most cases cervical cancer can be prevented through early detection and treatment of abnormal cell changes that occur in the cervix years before cervical cancer develops. We now know that these cell changes are caused by human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV.

There are no blood tests for HPV, but some tests can help your health care provider diagnose the infection.

Pap test — During this test, the health care provider removes a sample of cells from the cervix. The cells are then examined under a microscope to look for any changes in the cells, even in the absence of genital warts.

Colposcopy — For this test, a health care provider uses an instrument — called a colposcope (like a microscope)— that shines a light and magnifies the view of the cervix. A vinegar solution is placed on the cervix. The solution turns abnormal cells that are infected with HPV white, so they can be more easily seen.

HPV DNA test — This test looks directly for the genetic material (DNA) of the HPV within a sample of cells. The test can detect the type of HPV connected to cervical cancer. The sample used for this test is generally removed at the same time as a Pap test.