HPV testing
The HPV test is able to detect the types of HPV associated with cervical cancer.
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends the test be used for women who have had treatment due to a biopsy-proven high-grade abnormality (HSIL). The test is to performed at the same time as a follow up Pap smear and checks that the virus has been cleared from the body. When an HPV test is performed for this reason, it can be subsidised by Medicare.
After treatment of a high-grade abnormality
A woman who has had treatment for HSIL should have a colposcopy and Pap smear at 4-6 months after treatment. The Pap smear and HPV test should be done at 12 months after treatment and annually until the woman has tested negative in both tests on two consecutive occasions. At this time she can return to the usual Pap smear screening interval of 2 years.
| Time since treatment | Pap smear | Colposcopy | HPV test |
|---|---|---|---|
4-6 months |
 |
|
|
12 months |
Negative |
Negative |
|
24 months |
Negative |
|
Negative |
Further reading:
» HPV: a guide for practitioners (PDF 175KB)
This resource has been provided with permission from PapScreen Victoria.
More information:
» Facilitating screening
» Cervical Cytology Registry (CCR)
» Become a Pap smear provider
» Resources
» Add/update your details