Cervical Cancer (HPV)

This test checks for HPV strains which increase cervical cancer risk. The test uses a self-collection vaginal swab kit with instructions on how to collect a sample at home.

A private HPV Test can evaluate the health of your cervix and help to detect the early signs of cervical cancer. Also known as a cervical screening test, a test for HPV looks for certain strains of the Human papillomavirus, which are associated with an increased cervical cancer risk.

Our HPV Test is a quick, easy, and convenient way to assess your cervical cancer risk and check for the presence of Human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV Test features as part of our Female Cancer Risk check and can be added to and carried out as part of our full body health check packages.

Explore our packages and book your HPV Test online today.

What is a private HPV Test?

A private HPV Test is a simple test designed to assess the health of the cervix and check for strains of Human papillomavirus (HPV). With certain strains of the virus being linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer, it is important to check whether or not you have contracted these specific strains and keep a check on your cervical health.

HPV is the name given to a group of viruses that can go undetected and are not problematic in most individuals. However, some strains of this virus can cause genital warts or even cervical cancer.

HPV often does not show any symptoms, which makes it difficult to detect without testing. It's a very common virus and many people with HPV do not know that they have it. However, some individuals do experience painless lumps or genital warts caused by the virus. The virus is most commonly contracted by genital skin-to-skin contact or sexual activity.

There are over 100 types of HPV, but there are certain strains to watch out for. HPV testing can help to detect the presence of HPV and identify the strains. Whilst these high-risk strains can lead to increased cancer risk, undergoing regular HPV cervical screening can help to monitor changes in the cells of the cervix and identify the need for further investigation.

Why take an HPV Test?

HPV testing is essential to assess whether you have the HPV virus, which strains you have contracted, and if this increases your risk of cancer. Types 16 and 18 are the strains associated with increased cervical cancer risk. By detecting these strains early, you can take steps to investigate further and test to monitor cell changes and treat abnormalities.

Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women, typically diagnosed in those aged between 25 and 49. Fortunately, cervical cell changes often take years to develop into cancer. Therefore, careful monitoring of these changes is usually carried out before starting treatment to remove the abnormal cells. Although there is currently no treatment for the virus itself, most cases of HPV clear up on their own, typically within a period of two years.

Women in the UK are recommended to take cervical screening when they reach the age of 25. Cervical cancer risk is low under the age of 25 and during early adulthood, it is common to experience changes or abnormalities in the cells of your cervix, which most return to normal. Therefore, testing before the age of 25 can be unhelpful and cause undue stress and worry.

Description provided by Bluecrest Wellness.