HPV-positive—what does that mean?

What does it mean to test positive for HPV?

Do you think you might have an HPV infection? It’s normal to feel concerned and uncertain about what that means. To address these concerns, we recommend reading our in-depth article “Human Papillomavirus (HPV)—Questions and Answers.”

There are, however, more than 200 types and subtypes of HPV. Some of these can result in less severe conditions such as warts and anogenital lesions, while others can lead to more serious complications, such as cervical cancer.

However, it is important to note that HPV infection is quite common. In many cases, the body’s own immune system is able to clear the infection without the need for medical intervention.

HPV-Positive: What Should I Know?

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is the most common STI worldwide. Among the sexually active population, approximately 50 to 80 percent of individuals have tested positive for HPV at some point in their lives.

It is a “silent” virus, meaning that HPV symptoms often do not manifest (immediately). Sometimes, warts may not be visible depending on their location or because they are very small.

Infection occurs through intimate skin-to-skin contact between people, at least one of whom is infected. It can also occur vertically (during childbirth) or through urogenital contact—that is, involving both the reproductive and urinary systems simultaneously.

Can a screening test come back positive for HPV?

Cytology, also known as a Pap smear, is a gynecological test that identifies and/or screens for the presence of any inflammation or infections caused by microorganisms, including HPV.

If a positive HPV test is accompanied by abnormal Pap smear results, your doctor should refer you for more specific tests.

On the other hand, if you have previously been diagnosed with HPV and your Pap smear shows normal results, this may be interpreted as a sign that your immune system is effectively managing the infection.

In any case, this should not lead to complacency: it is important to undergo regular screening tests. These are the most effective tool for determining whether an infection will persist and potentially progress to a more serious condition, such as cervical cancer.

How can you avoid an HPV-positive diagnosis?

Prevention is the best way to avoid a positive HPV diagnosis. To do so, it is important to follow these measures:

• Limit the number of sexual partners;
• Avoid intimate contact with a partner if they are infected or show symptoms of HPV;
• Get vaccinated against HPV, in accordance with the National Immunization Program or as recommended by a healthcare provider.
• Undergo regular screening tests, such as a Pap smear and/or HPV-DNA test, if recommended and available, even if you have been vaccinated;

The use of barrier contraceptives (condoms) as a preventive measure against all STIs is always recommended. It is, however, important to emphasize that areas of skin not covered by the condom are not protected.

In addition, you should talk to your partner about sexually transmitted infections and past sexual behavior, taking into account any history of unprotected sex and whether they have had multiple previous partners.

I found out I’m HPV-positive—what should I do?

Unfortunately, there is no definitive cure for HPV. However, in most cases, the infection resolves on its own over time, without the need for medical intervention and without causing any symptoms.

In some cases, particularly when a high-risk strain of HPV is detected, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as a biopsy, to investigate any changes in the cells of the cervix. 

This step is important for diagnosing cervical cancer, which can be associated with certain strains of HPV.

If you are diagnosed as HPV-positive, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and undergo regular screening tests. It is also essential to inform your partner so that you can both take preventive measures and avoid transmitting the virus.

If you need further clarification or would like to schedule screening tests, you can find information about available Collection Points on the dedicated page of our website.