HPV Screening Test and HPV Vaccine

HPV infections are among the most common sexually transmitted diseases. This virus is not specific to women and is widely carried by men as well. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. In particular, HPV is considered the primary cause of cervical cancer in women. However, it is an infection that can be easily detected with a simple test and largely controlled through vaccination [1].

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The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective primary prevention tools developed to prevent cervical cancer. Early vaccination significantly increases the level of protection.

What Is HPV?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is an infection that can cause genital warts in both women and men. These warts may appear as small, pinhead-sized lesions or grow larger, often with a cauliflower-like appearance.

Approximately 40 different HPV types are known, and they can cause cancers in areas such as the cervix, labia, vagina, and anus, especially in women. Although many HPV infections can resolve spontaneously through the immune system, some high-risk types may lead to cancer. According to ACOG data, the 9-valent HPV vaccine provides over 99% protection against diseases related to HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, and up to 96.7% protection against types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 [1].

Therefore, regular HPV screening tests are essential to detect the virus early and prevent potential complications.

For more information about early detection of cervical cancer, you can visit our what is a smear test page.

What Is an HPV Screening Test?

The HPV screening test is a specialized cervical screening procedure performed in women to examine the cervix and detect precancerous conditions. There are two main types of this test. The first group is called co-testing and is performed together with the smear test.

The main advantage of this test is that it can detect both the presence of HPV and cellular changes that may lead to cervical cancer. The second type is used solely to detect HPV infection. ACOG recommends that women aged 30–65 undergo HPV testing or co-testing every 5 years [1].

What Is the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a medical method used to control HPV infection and reduce the risk of cancer. It is a crucial preventive measure, as nearly all cervical cancer cases are associated with HPV infection.

Vaccination provides primary protection. Different vaccines have been developed to protect against various HPV types. The most comprehensive protection today is offered by the 9-valent vaccine (Gardasil 9), which protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 [2]. Studies show that vaccine effectiveness is highest when administered between the ages of 9 and 14 (74–93%) [2].

How Is the HPV Vaccine Administered?

According to current ACOG and CDC recommendations, the HPV vaccination schedule is as follows [1, 2]:

• 9–14 years: 2 doses — second dose given 6–12 months after the first
• 15–45 years: 3 doses — administered at 0, 2, and 6 months
• The vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys.
• The highest level of protection is achieved when vaccination is completed before the onset of sexual activity.

Vaccination guidelines may evolve over time. Since 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) has also recognized a single-dose vaccination strategy as an acceptable protection method in certain settings [3].

For more detailed information about cervical cancer, you can visit our cervical cancer page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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  What is the best age for HPV vaccination?

  Research shows that the strongest immune response is achieved between the ages of 9–14. Vaccination before sexual activity provides the highest level of protection.

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  Is a smear test still necessary after HPV vaccination?

  Yes. The vaccine does not cover all high-risk HPV types, so regular screening should continue.

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  Can HPV infection go away on its own?

  Yes. Many HPV infections are cleared by the immune system within 1–2 years. However, high-risk types (especially HPV 16 and 18) may persist and lead to cancer.

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  Should men also get the HPV vaccine?

  Yes. Men can transmit HPV and also benefit from protection against cancers such as anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers.

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  Can the HPV vaccine be given during pregnancy?

  HPV vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy. It is advised to complete the vaccination series before planning pregnancy.

References

1. ACOG (2020)
2. Rostami Varnousfaderani et al. (2025)
3. Tatar et al. (2025)