What is HPV?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is transmitted through sexual contact, and most sexually active people encounter it at some point in their lives. There are more than a hundred types: low-risk types can cause genital warts, while high-risk types – above all types 16 and 18 – are the main cause of cervical cancer.
The infection usually causes no symptoms and is generally cleared by the immune system within a year or two. What matters most are cases in which the virus persists for a long time.
Cervical cancer screening
The smear (Pap) test shows changes in the cells of the cervix, while the HPV test shows whether the virus is present. Turkey's national screening programme recommends an HPV test every five years for women aged 30–65; screening intervals differ from country to country, and your doctor may recommend a different interval based on your personal risk.
These tests are called screening when they are done in women without symptoms. Tests done because of symptoms, or after a previously known abnormal result, are diagnostic rather than screening tests. Colposcopy is part of this diagnostic assessment.
My result was abnormal – what happens next?
Your report may include terms such as ASCUS, LSIL or HSIL, or a positive HPV 16/18 result. Most of these results do not mean cancer; they indicate that the cervix needs a closer look. This is usually done by colposcopy.
An abnormal result can be worrying, but the very purpose of screening is to find these changes early, before they become cancer.
How is colposcopy done?
Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix with a magnifying microscope. It is done in the gynaecological examination position; diluted acetic acid (and, if needed, an iodine solution) is applied to the cervix to make suspicious areas visible. Small biopsies are taken from these areas if necessary.
The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes and is performed under brief sedation so that you feel no pain. It is best planned for a day when you are not having your period.
Treatment of precancerous changes
After treatment, follow-up with HPV and smear tests is carried out at set intervals.
Prevention
- HPV vaccination protects against most cancer-causing types.
- Even if you have been vaccinated, you should continue regular screening.
- Condoms offer partial protection; stopping smoking helps the body clear the virus.
Frequently asked questions
I tested HPV positive – do I have cancer?
No. A positive HPV result only shows that the virus is present. Most infections clear on their own; follow-up or colposcopy is planned according to the result.
Is there a medicine for HPV?
There is no medicine that directly eliminates the virus. Treatment targets the changes the virus causes in the cervix, which is why regular follow-up is important.
At what age can I have the HPV vaccine?
The vaccine is most effective before any exposure to HPV, but it can also be beneficial at older ages. You can discuss whether it is suitable for you with your doctor.
Book a consultation
Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri Aydın sees patients at Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital, Istanbul. International patients are supported by the hospital's International Patient Services Center.
The information on this page is for general guidance only; the right diagnosis and treatment for you are decided after a consultation. Last updated: November 2026.