HPV test: what the 28-type test detects and who should take it

2 days ago

3 min read

A PCR HPV test detects the genetic material of the human papillomavirus in a genital sample and identifies which type it is. At Sermed Laboratorio the test covers 28 types: 16 high-risk types, linked to precancerous lesions and cancer, and 12 low-risk types, mainly linked to genital warts. It costs €150, or €50 extra if added to Pack 1 or Pack 2, and includes a medical consultation.

What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection: most sexually active people will get it at some point in their lives. It spreads through skin and mucous membrane contact during sex, including oral sex.

The good news is that most infections clear up on their own, usually within one or two years. The problem is persistent infection with high-risk types, which over time can cause lesions in the cervix, anus, throat or penis.

Book your test · Walk-ins welcome at C. del Dos de Maig, 283 (Eixample, Barcelona). Same-day results if your sample is taken before 4 pm.

Which types the 28-type test detects

16 high-risk types: 16, 18, 26, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 53, 56, 58, 59, 66 and 68.
12 low-risk types: 6, 11, 40, 42, 43, 44, 54, 61, 73, 81, 82 and 83.

Types 16 and 18 are the ones most often linked to cervical cancer. Types 6 and 11 cause most genital warts. Knowing the exact type helps the doctor decide on follow-up.

Who should take an HPV test?

Women, as part of cervical cancer screening, according to their age and the advice of their gynaecologist or screening programme.
People with genital warts or other lesions in the genital or anal area.
Partners of people diagnosed with HPV, if the doctor considers it useful.
Anyone who wants to know their status when starting a new relationship or as part of a full STI check-up.

For men there is no established population screening: testing is guided by symptoms, lesions or medical advice. Being vaccinated greatly reduces the risk, but the vaccine doesn't cover every type, so it doesn't replace screening.

How to read your result

Negative: no genetic material from the tested types was detected in the sample.
Low-risk positive: linked to genital warts, not to cancer.
High-risk positive: this does not mean you have cancer. It means follow-up with your gynaecologist or doctor is advisable (for example, a smear test or a repeat test, depending on the case).

The HPV test includes a medical consultation: the doctor explains your result and the next steps.

How it's done at Sermed Laboratorio

A quick, painless genital sample.
High-precision Real-Time PCR analysis.
Price: €150 on its own, or +€50 if added to Pack 1 (€160) or Pack 2 (€250).
No appointment needed: Monday to Friday 10:00–20:00 and Saturday 10:00–18:00, at C. del Dos de Maig, 283 (Eixample, Barcelona).

General advice: for women, it is best not to take the sample during your period and to avoid vaginal douches, pessaries or vaginal creams in the days before. If in doubt, ask us before you come.

Want to know if the HPV test is right for you? Message us on WhatsApp (+34 603 993 693).

Frequently asked questions

Is there a cure for HPV?

There is no treatment that eliminates the virus, but most infections clear up on their own. The lesions it causes, such as warts or precancerous lesions, can be treated.

If I'm vaccinated, do I need the test?

The vaccine protects against the most important types, but not all of them. Vaccinated women should continue to take part in cervical screening.

Do condoms protect against HPV?

They reduce the risk but don't eliminate it, because the virus can be on areas of skin that a condom doesn't cover.