At Prelib, we now offer self-sampling for cervical cancer screening using an HPV test. Because this screening method is still relatively new and is gradually replacing the Pap test, it’s completely normal to have questions.
Our goal is simple: to help you understand this new screening option without judgment or complicated language, so you can make an informed decision and feel confident throughout the process.
The HPV test and the Pap test are both used to help prevent cervical cancer. However, they detect different things and are used in different ways.
The Pap test, which has been used for several decades, looks for abnormal cells on the cervix. The HPV test detects certain types of human papillomavirus, known as high-risk HPV, that are associated with the development of precancerous lesions.
The HPV test is currently being introduced as the preferred method of cervical cancer screening in Quebec.1
What is a Pap test?
The Pap test, also known as a Pap smear or Papanicolaou test, is a screening test that examines cells collected from the cervix.
Its purpose is to detect abnormal or precancerous cells. If these cell changes are not identified and monitored, they can sometimes develop into cervical cancer.
A Pap test is typically performed by a healthcare professional using a speculum. During the procedure, a small sample of cells is collected from the cervix and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
For many years, the Pap test was the primary method used to screen for cervical cancer. It remains an important screening tool, particularly in certain follow-up situations or when used as a complementary cytology test.
What is the HPV test?
The HPV test looks for certain high-risk types of HPV. These types of the virus are associated with the development of precancerous changes in the cervix.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) Most sexually active people will be exposed to it at some point in their lives, often without knowing it. In most cases, the infection clears on its own. However, when a high-risk HPV infection persists, it can lead to cell changes in the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer if left undetected and untreated.
The HPV test helps identify people who may benefit from closer follow-up before more advanced cell changes develop. It is not used to diagnose cervical cancer, but rather to detect a higher risk of developing it.
The INESSS recommends primary screening with an HPV test every 5 years for people aged 25 to 65 who have a cervix, provided the result is negative.2
HPV testing at Prelib: a simple and confidential approach
At Prelib, the HPV test is offered as part of cervical cancer screening.
The sample is self-collected in one of our clinicsusing clear instructions provided on site. There is no gynecological examination, no speculum and no sample collected by a healthcare professional.
Self-collection is suitable for the vast majority of people. In certain clinical situations, however, collection by a healthcare professional may be recommended.
Results are securely delivered through your Prelib patient portal. If your result is positive, our clinical team will contact you and guide you through the appropriate next steps.
HPV Test vs. Pap Test: The Main Difference
The most important difference is simple:
The Pap test looks for cells that have already changed. The HPV test looks for the virus that can cause those changes.
In other words, the Pap test looks for the effects of HPV on cervical cells, while the HPV test detects the presence of high-risk HPV before cell changes are necessarily visible.
This is one reason the HPV test is considered more sensitive for identifying people who may be at risk. The Canadian Cancer Society states that both the HPV test and the Pap test are effective screening tests, although the type of test used depends on the province or territory.
Comparative table: HPV test vs. Pap test
| Criteria | HPV test | Pap test |
|---|---|---|
| What it detects | The presence of high-risk HPV | Abnormal or precancerous cells |
| Purpose | To identify people at risk of developing precancerous lesions | To detect cellular changes that are already present |
| When it detects changes | Earlier in the process, before lesions may develop | Once cellular changes are already visible |
| Type of collection | Can be done via self-sampling, depending on the clinical context | Performed by a healthcare professional |
| Sensitivity | More sensitive for identifying people at risk | Less sensitive than the HPV test as a primary screening method |
| Usual frequency | Every 5 years, from age 25 to 65, when used as the primary screening method | Generally every 2 to 3 years when the Pap test is used |
| Comfort | May be performed without a speculum in certain settings, including through self-collection | Generally requires an examination using a speculum |
| Positive result | Indicates the presence of high-risk HPV, but does not necessarily mean cancer | Indicates the presence of abnormal cells that require assessment |
Why is the HPV test gradually replacing the Pap test?
The HPV test is increasingly being used as the primary screening method because it directly detects the high-risk types of HPV associated with cervical cancer. This allows healthcare providers to identify people who may be at risk of developing precancerous changes earlier, even before cell changes become visible.
A negative HPV test also provides strong reassurance that the risk of developing precancerous changes over the next several years is low. This is why screening can generally be performed less frequently.
In Quebec, the Ministry of Health and Social Services is gradually introducing HPV testing as the primary method of cervical cancer screening across the province.
This does not mean the Pap test will disappear entirely. It may still be used as a complementary test to look for cell changes and help determine the appropriate follow-up after certain positive HPV test results.
What does it mean that the HPV test is more sensitive?
The HPV test is considered more sensitive than the Pap test, meaning it identifies more people who may have or may go on to develop precancerous changes in the cervix.
However, this increased sensitivity comes with a trade-off: the HPV test is less specific than the Pap test. This means it may detect HPV infections that would never go on to cause a health problem. Most HPV infections clear on their own, often within 12 to 24 months, without causing precancerous changes or cervical cancer.
A positive HPV test result does not mean that a person has cervical cancer or that they will necessarily develop it. It simply means that a high-risk type of HPV has been detected and that additional follow-up may be recommended, depending on the HPV type identified and the results of any additional testing.
The Pap test continues to play an important role in certain situations because it looks for cell changes that are already present in the cervix. It can help determine the most appropriate follow-up after a positive HPV test result.
What does a positive HPV test result mean?
A positive HPV test result means that a high-risk type of HPV has been detected.
This does not mean you have cancer.
In most cases, HPV infections do not cause cancer. However, some high-risk HPV types can persist and cause cellular changes over time. This is why follow-up may be recommended.
Depending on the result, follow-up may include:
- complementary cytology;
- a repeat test;
- a colposcopy ;
- a referral to a healthcare professional.
The goal is to detect any changes at an early stage and take action before they progress.
At What Age Is Cervical Cancer Screening Recommended?
In Quebec, cervical cancer screening recommendations are evolving as the province transitions to HPV testing.
The HPV test is recommended as the primary screening method for people aged 25 to 65 who have a cervix. After a negative result, the recommended screening interval is generally every 5 years.
Screening is not generally recommended before age 25, even if a person became sexually active at a younger age. HPV infections are very common in younger people, and most clear on their own. Screening too early may identify temporary infections that would never cause health problems, while potentially leading to unnecessary follow-up tests or procedures.
Before HPV testing was introduced as the primary screening method, the Pap test was routinely used for cervical cancer screening. As HPV testing is gradually being implemented across Quebec, the HPV test is becoming the routine screening method, while the Pap test continues to play an important role in certain follow-up situations.
Can I get an HPV test if I have been vaccinated?
Yes. HPV vaccination reduces the risk of infection with several HPV types associated with cervical cancer, but it does not necessarily protect against every high-risk HPV type.
Even after vaccination, screening remains recommended based on your age, medical history and current guidelines.
Am I eligible for an HPV test?
To check if the HPV test is right for you, fill out our medical questionnaire → by signing in to your Prelib patient account or by creating a new account. Your answers will allow us to confirm your eligibility and direct you to the appropriate service.
- Government of Quebec (March 2026) https://www.quebec.ca/sante/conseils-et-prevention/depistage-et-offre-de-tests-de-porteur/depistage-du-cancer-du-col-uterus ↩︎
- National Institute of Excellence in Health and Social Services (INESSS) (2025) https://inesss.algorithmes-onco.info/fr/depistage-du-cancer-du-col-de-l-uterus-et-prise-en-charge-des-lesions-precancereuses ↩︎
