What is the HPV test?
The HPV test checks a sample of cervical cells for high-risk types of the human papillomavirus that can cause cervical cancer.
The HPV test is taken much like a Pap smear but specifically looks for the virus rather than cell changes.
It is often used alongside or instead of the Pap smear, especially for women aged 30 and above.
A negative HPV test is very reassuring, while a positive result guides closer monitoring.