HPV and cervical screening: Understanding the next steps

Screening aims to detect changes early

Cervical screening helps to identify risks and cellular changes linked to the development of cancer in the neck of the womb, also called the cervix. While the HPV test looks for high-risk types of the virus, the cell examination known as a smear assesses the appearance of the cells. These tests do not give the same information. Türkiye’s national programme includes screening every five years for the 30–65 age group. Previous abnormal results or certain health conditions may require different follow-up. The personal schedule is set by assessing age and past results together.

A positive HPV result is not a cancer diagnosis

HPV is a very common group of viruses, and most infections cause no symptoms. The body usually clears the infection over time; persistence of some high-risk types, however, is associated with cellular changes. A positive result does not show when the virus was acquired and is not proof of infidelity in a relationship. The virus can be present for a long time without causing symptoms. The meaning of the result is considered together with the type detected, the cell examination, previous results and personal history. Simply seeing the word positive does not mean that cancer is present or that a procedure is definitely needed.

Understanding the follow-up plan is important

For some results, repeating the test after a set interval may be recommended; for others, colposcopy, in which the cervix is examined in more detail, may be recommended. Being recommended colposcopy does not, on its own, mean that cancer has been diagnosed either. If the sample is not adequate, a new sample may need to be taken; this may not mean that abnormal cells have been found. At the results consultation, it should be made clear what the next step is, when it will take place and how its result will be obtained. Keeping previous reports makes it easier for follow-up decisions to be made in the right context. Screening intervals in another country should not be applied directly to a personal plan in Türkiye. Results should be interpreted together.

Screening and the assessment of symptoms are considered together

The HPV vaccine provides protection against some important HPV types, but it does not cover all types and does not replace appropriate screening. Questions about protection and vaccination can be discussed with the doctor in terms of age, previous doses and personal circumstances. When there are symptoms such as bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause, it is not appropriate to wait for the next screening date. Even if a normal screening result was received recently, new symptoms need to be assessed separately. Screening is part of preventive care for people without symptoms; it has a different purpose from an assessment carried out because of a complaint.