HPV is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Human papillomavirus (HPV) test is done to find a high-risk HPV infection in women and HPV test checks for the genetic material (DNA) of the human papillomavirus. Like Pap Smear, sample of cells collected from the cervix is taken for test. This test will identify whether a high-risk type of HPV is present. In women, high-risk types of HPV such as types 16, 18, 31, and 45 cause changes in the cells of the cervix.

Abnormal cervical cell changes may resolve on their own , but some untreated cervical cell changes can progress to serious abnormalities and may lead to cervical cancer over time if it is not treated.