Pap test and HPV test

This lesson is part of the WARTES HPV Masterclass. Preview: the first part of the narration.

The Pap test and the HPV test are often confused. In this video, I explain how each one is done, and what the words on your result sheet mean. The Pap test, also called a smear, means looking under a microscope at cells shed from the surface of the cervix.

It does not look for the virus; it shows whether the cells have changed. How is it done? You lie on the examination table in the gynaecological position, and you are covered. A small instrument called a speculum is placed so that the cervix can be seen.

A sample of cells is taken from the cervix with a brush. It takes a few seconds. The sample is put into a protective liquid and sent to the pathology laboratory. Right after that, a sample for the HPV test is taken in the same way.

This is also a swab. It is put into a protective liquid and sent to a PCR laboratory. The HPV test looks for the virus itself and tells us which type is there. For 2 days before both tests, do not have sex and do not use vaginal pessaries.

The tests are not done during your period. The results depend on the laboratory, and usually come in 7 to 14 days. Let's read your Pap result. If it says "normal" or "negative", there are no cell changes. "Inflammation" or "reactive changes" also count as normal.

If it says the sample was "unsatisfactory", the test is repeated in 2 to 4 months.

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