What is HPV Testing?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives.

There are many different types of HPV; some types can cause health problems including genital warts and cancers. Due to advances in science, there are now vaccines that can stop these health problems from happening. 

Your provider will take a sample of your cervical cells as part of your normal yearly exam and send them to the lab. Depending on your medical history and results of your HPV test, you will be advised as to how often you should get follow-up testing.