HPV Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, Preparation - 2024

Table of Content

Introduction to the Human Papillomavirus Test

HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a sexually transmitted and highly contagious. The primary concern with high-risk HPV strains is linked to cervical cancer in women and other cancers in women. The HPV can transmit through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or even oral sex. It's important to note that infection can occur without visible symptoms, making it a stealthy virus. An HPV test uses a sample of cells to determine whether the cells are infected with a high-risk strain of HPV. The test detects the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in your body. HPV is a very common virus, and most people will get it eventually. Such an infection, if long-lasting, can cause changes in cervical cells that could lead to cervical cancer. Early detection through regular screening, starting at age 30, is crucial for managing and preventing potential health problems. Choose Redcliffe Labs as your diagnostic partner to get the HPV test. We ensure that we provide you with accurate test results on time. 

Test details in brief

Purpose of the HPV test

The purpose of the HPV blood test is to detect the HPV infection. The test is performed for various reasons-

• Early detection of cervical cancer- The HPV test for women identifies the high-risk strains that can persist and cause cervical cancer in women. 

• Close monitoring- If infected with high-risk HPV, your doctor might recommend more frequent Pap smears to keep a close eye on any cell changes.
• Early intervention- If precancerous changes are detected through the Pap test, treatment can be initiated at an early stage, significantly increasing the chance of successful intervention and preventing cervical cancer from developing.
• Oropharyngeal cancer- High-risk HPV is a major risk factor for this head and neck cancer, and the HPV test is sometimes used in its diagnosis and management.

The HPV infection can cause various other cancers, including the anus, penis, vagina, and vulva. 

What does the HPV virus test measure?

The Human Papillomavirus Test measures the high-risk strains of HPV virus. There are over 200 different types of HPV, and most people will get at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives. Sexually transmitted HPV strains are indeed separated into two main categories:

Low-risk HPV- 

• Types- Most commonly include HPV types 6 and 11.
• Risks- Primarily associated with causing genital warts in both men and women. These warts are usually harmless and often go away independently, although they can be uncomfortable. 
• Cancer risk- Low-risk HPV strains are not considered significantly linked to cancer development.

High-risk HPV- 

• Types- Includes strains like HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58.
•  Risks- Can cause significant health problems, including cervical cancer in women, Oropharyngeal cancer (head and neck cancer) in both men and women, Vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers, and Penile cancer in men.
• Cancer risk- High-risk HPV strains are responsible for approximately 90% of cervical cancers and a significant portion of other HPV-related cancers.

The HPV test measures the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA or RNA in the cells collected from your body. 

• DNA test- This checks for the presence of HPV DNA in your cells. This is the most accurate type of HPV virus test and is used to screen for cervical cancer. It detects if you have ever been infected with a particular HPV strain.

Preparation for the HPV test

The test does not require any special preparation before the test. You need to follow the simple instructions mentioned by your doctor.

• The test does not require fasting, and you can eat normally per your routine. 
• Try to avoid sex at least two days before the HPV test.
• Do not douche within two days of an HPV test.
• Avoid tampons for two days before the test.
• Do not take a test during the menstruation period. 
• Do not use any vaginal medicines before the HPV test
• Consult your doctor for any questions, discuss your medical history, medications you're taking, and any allergies you might have.

When should I take the HPV Test?

Your doctor may recommend the HPV virus test based on age, gender, and medical history. Here's the general overview-

• Ages 21-29- People of this age must take the HPV test with regular Pap smears every three years.
• Ages 30-65- People of this age can choose to get the HPV test alone every three years with a Pap smear together every 5 years.
• Personal risk factors- People with multiple sexual partners are at high risk of weakened immune systems, so your doctor might recommend starting HPV testing.
• Previous test results- If you have an abnormal Pap smear, a positive HPV blood test from an earlier test, or a history of cervical cancer, your doctor may recommend more frequent HPV testing or closer monitoring.

Other Factors

• HIV 
• Weakened immune system
• Family history

The procedure of the HPV test

The HPV virus test is a swab test. During the procedure, the healthcare provider will collect the sample from the vagina. Your doctor will ask you to undress and put on a hospital gown. After that, the doctor will use a swab to collect the sample of cells from your cervix. The process is quick and painless. If you have any concerns or experience severe discomfort during the test, ask your doctor. You might feel slight pressure or cramping during sample collection, but it will return to normal soon. However, this procedure will only take a few minutes. 

What do the HPV test reports indicate?

The HPV test results will be available within 5 days of sample collection. The HPV blood test results show positive and negative results-

• Positive Result- This positive test report shows the presence of DNA from one or more HPV strains. A positive test can increase your risk of developing cervical cancer and other cancers in the future. 
• Negative Result- The negative results indicate the absence of HPV DNA and strains in your body. Consult your test results with your doctor and take regular screenings. 

What are the common symptoms related to HPV infection?

The majority of people don't have any noticeable symptoms at all. This is why it's important to get screened, especially for women, to detect potential issues before they develop. However, there are some uncommon symptoms of HPV- 

• Genital Warts- Genital warts are the most common symptom caused by low-risk HPV strains. These warts can appear on the genitals, anus, groin, or even thighs. They can be flat or raised, small or large, and single or clustered. High-risk HPV can lead to cervical cancer and other cancers, often without early symptoms.
• Other symptoms- In some cases, the HPV infection can cause symptoms like unexplained vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding between periods. Regular screening and early detection are crucial for managing HPV-related complications.

Always consult your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms or have questions about HPV. 

How to prevent transmission of HPV Infection?

HPV is a very common virus, and most people who are infected with HPV never develop any symptoms or health problems. However, preventing HPV transmission is important to protect your partner. Here are some of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of HPV infection:

• Vaccination- This is one of the most effective ways to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer and other types of cancer. 
• Safe Sex practices- Use contraceptive methods to reduce the risk of HPV transmission. Use dental dams during oral sex to help reduce the risk of HPV transmission.

• Limit sexual partners- Having fewer sexual partners reduces your risk of exposure to HPV.
• Avoiding smoking- The people who smoke have weakened immunity, and it makes it more difficult to clear HPV infection.

HPV Test Price at Redcliffe Labs

The HPV test price at Redcliffe Labs is INR 1450. You can book your test from the Redcliffe Labs app or call us to book your test. We ensure to provide you with the best diagnostic services from the comfort of your home. With Redcliffe Labs, you don't need to wait in a long queue or travel hassle. Our experts adhere to strict quality control measures, ensuring your accuracy in every test result. We offer diagnostic tests at competitive prices, with great discounts and offers. From basic blood tests to advanced genetic analyses, you can find the tests you need under one roof. This saves you time and eliminates the need to visit multiple labs for different tests. We ensure convenience, accuracy, and affordability and provide reliable and accessible solutions for your diagnostic needs. Simply search on Google HPV test near me and choose the nearby Redcliffe Labs to get the test. 

HPV Test Cost in Different Cities

HPV Testing for a Healthier Future 

The HPV test is a simple test that identifies the presence of the human papillomavirus, a common virus affecting both men and women. Different HPV strains exist, some causing harmless genital warts, while others pose a higher risk of developing cancers like cervical, vulvar, vaginal, penile, anal, and certain head and neck cancers. However, getting vaccinated against HPV before sex can reduce the risk of contracting the virus and developing its associated health consequences. Taking an HPV blood test is important as it detects the high-risk HPV strains early, even before any symptoms occur. This enables intervention at an initial stage when treatment options are most effective, and chances of successful outcomes are significantly higher. Early detection empowers proactive measures like increased monitoring or precancerous cell removal, thereby significantly lowering cancer development possibilities.