Human papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus, also called HPV, is a very common family of viruses. There are more than 200 typesof HPV, many of which can be transmitted through sexual contact. 

Most sexually active people will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives, often without knowing it. In most cases, the infection clears on its own as the immune system eliminates the virus. However, some HPV types can persist and lead to long-term health complications.

There are two main categories of sexually transmitted HPV:

High-risk HPV

High-risk HPV types are associated with the development of precancerous lesions and certain cancers, including cervical cancer.

They can also contribute to other cancers, including those affecting the anus, vagina, vulva, penis, mouth, and throat.

Among the best-known high-risk types are HPV 16 and HPV 18, although many other high-risk types exist.

Low-risk HPV

Important: At Prelib, the HPV test is offered as part of cervical cancer screening. It is not a comprehensive STI screening test and is not intended to diagnose genital warts.

How is HPV transmitted?

HPV is primarily spread through intimate skin-to-skin or mucosal contact, most often during sexual activity.

Transmission can occur during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, with or without penetration. It can also occur even when the infected person has no visible symptoms.

Because HPV is so common and often causes no symptoms, it’s possible to carry and transmit the virus without knowing it.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Most HPV infections cause no symptoms.

When symptoms do occur, certain low-risk HPV types can cause genital warts (condylomas). These may be soft or firm and can appear pink, flesh-colored, white, brown, or gray. Their appearance varies: they may resemble common warts, small bumps, or have a cauliflower-like appearance.

For people with a vulva, genital warts may develop on the vulva, inside the vagina, on the cervix, or around the anus.

For people with a penis, they may develop on the penis, under the foreskin, at the opening of the urethra, or around the anus.

High-risk HPV types generally do not cause visible symptoms. However, they can persist for many years and cause changes to the cells of the cervix. Over time, these changes may develop into precancerous lesions and, more rarely, cervical cancer if they are not detected and monitored.

The vast majority of high-risk HPV infections do not progress to cancer. However, screening helps identify the people who would benefit from preventive follow-up.

Why get an HPV test?

The HPV test detects the presence of high-risk HPV types associated with cervical cancer.

The goal is not to diagnose cancer, but rather to identify people who may need follow-up care. In other words, the test identifies risk before more advanced cellular changes develop.

Regular screening helps:

• detect high-risk HPV ;
• identify people who require follow-up ;
• help prevent the progression of certain precancerous lesions ;
• ensure timely follow-up after a positive result.

The HPV test is gradually replacing the Pap test as the primary method of cervical cancer screening.

Who should get screened?

This screening is intended for people aged 25 to 65 who have a cervix and have ever been sexually active.

It is designed for people seeking routine screening who do not have symptoms.

HPV screening is generally recommended every five years for eligible individuals. A three-year interval is recommended between your last Pap test and your first HPV test, except in certain situations, such as for people who are immunocompromised.

This test is intended for routine screening and does not replace a medical evaluation if you have symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, persistent pelvic pain, or abnormal vaginal discharge.

Screening is especially recommended if you:

• are between 25 and 65 years old ;
• have a cervix ;
• have ever been sexually active ;
• have not had a Pap or HPV test in several years ;
• have a history of cervical lesions or have been advised to receive ongoing follow-up.

Screening is also recommended:

• after pregnancy ;
• after menopause ;
• if you are vaccinated against HPV ;
• if it’s been a long time since your last screening.

Some people, including those who are immunocompromised, may require more frequent or specialized follow-up.

If your result is positive

A positive result means that a high-risk HPV type has been detected, with or without abnormal cell changes depending on any additional testing performed.

This does not mean you have cancer. It means that follow-up is needed to better assess your risk and determine the appropriate next steps.

Most HPV infections do not cause cancer and clear on their own. However, when a high-risk HPV infection persists, it can lead to cellular changes that require monitoring.

If your result is positive, our clinical team will contact you to explain the next steps and help coordinate your care.

Depending on your results and clinical situation, follow-up may include:

• additional cervical cytology ;
• repeat HPV testing ;
• a colposcopy ;
• referral to a healthcare professional.

The goal is to provide early, safe, and personalized care.

Can HPV be treated?

There is no treatment that directly eliminates human papillomavirus.

In most cases, the immune system clears the infection naturally over time. However, some conditions caused by HPV can be treated.

Genital warts can be treated using a variety of methods, including cryotherapy or prescription creams.

Precancerous cervical lesions can also be treated when detected early. Depending on the situation, treatment may include cryosurgery, laser therapy, or other specialized procedures.

These treatments address the lesions or warts but do not necessarily eliminate the virus completely. As a result, ongoing follow-up may still be necessary.

How can you reduce your risk of HPV?

You can reduce your risk of HPV infection and its complications by taking a few preventive measures.

In Quebec, the HPV vaccine protects against the main HPV types associated with cervical cancer and genital warts. Even if you’ve been vaccinated, regular screening is still recommended because the vaccine does not protect against every high-risk HPV type.

Using condoms or barrier protection can also reduce the risk of transmission. However, this protection is not complete because HPV can infect areas that are not covered by a condom.

For this reason, regular cervical cancer screening remains recommended for eligible individuals.

Pap Test vs. HPV Test: What’s the Difference?

Both the Pap test and the HPV test are used to help prevent cervical cancer, but they detect different things.

Find out more →

Should you tell your partners?

HPV is highly contagious and can remain symptom-free for many years. This means it can be difficult to know when or from whom the infection was acquired.

If you are diagnosed with HPV or genital warts, consult a healthcare professional for advice and appropriate treatment. You should also inform your current sexual partner(s).

Partners should examine themselves for visible genital warts using a mirror. If they notice anything suspicious, they should consult a healthcare professional for evaluation, treatment if needed, and to determine whether internal lesions (such as on the cervix) may also be present. A healthcare professional can also determine whether HPV vaccination is recommended for your partner(s).

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