Screening to detect HPV in the cervix
Upptäck HPV i livmoderhalsen - engelskaScreening is available regularly once you reach a certain age. A sample is collected from the vagina for testing. The test shows whether you have human papilloma virus, called HPV. HPV can lead to cellular changes. Cellular changes can develop into cervical cancer.
This type of test is called a screening test. This means that you have the test even though you feel healthy.
You will receive a letter each time you are due to have a test. This is to provide you with good protection against cancer.
The test is voluntary and free of charge.
Why should I have the test?
You will not feel any different if you have the HPV virus. That is why it is important to have a test every time you receive a letter to say that you are invited to screening.
The virus can be detected early when you undergo screening. Then you can receive treatment. It provides very good protection against cancer.
Go to screening even if you have been vaccinated against HPV.
Go to screening even if you are pregnant.
How do I get tested?
A midwife can collect the sample at the midwifery clinic (barnmorskemottagningen). You can also collect a sample yourself at home. Both ways of sample collection are equally good.
The letter explains what to do. You can say that you do not want to collect the sample yourself.
If the midwife is going to collect the sample
The letter tells you what time to come to the midwifery clinic.
Book a new appointment if you have your period when you are scheduled for screening. The letter tells you how you how to do this.
You can bring someone with you if you wish.
What happens during sample collection
The midwife will start by talking with you. You will then need to undress from the waist down. You will recline in a chair with leg supports.
It is common to feel embarrassed in this situation. You might find it helpful to remember that the staff spend all day looking at and collecting samples from the vagina.
Try to relax.
Let the midwife know if you have any questions or concerns.
The midwife will carefully insert an instrument to see better. The midwife will then use a small soft brush to collect the sample.
Some people say that they don't even feel it. Some people find it uncomfortable or slightly painful for a short time.
You may bleed a little from the vagina afterwards. This will soon pass.
The entire visit to the midwife only takes a few minutes.
If you are collecting the sample yourself
You will need a self-sampling kit if you are going to collect the sample yourself. The self-sampling kit will be sent to you at the same time as the letter. You can also order the kit. This will not cost you anything.
You will receive instructions with pictures. The pictures show you how to collect the sample and send it to the clinic.
Collecting the sample should not cause pain.
You can collect a sample even if you have your period or if you are pregnant.
If sample collection is difficult for you
Do the screening even if you find it difficult. You can get advice and help, for example if any of the following applies:
- You have difficulty moving your body.
- Your genitals have been sewn together after a female circumcision.
- You feel very uncomfortable about sample collection.
Contact the clinic that sent the letter.
What happens after the sample collection?
Experts will examine the sample. When they have finished, you will receive a letter with the test result. It can take up to three months before you receive the letter.
What does the test result mean?
Many people who undergo screening receive a test result that says they have HPV. Some people may also find out that they have cellular changes.
Some people need to have more tests to see if they need treatment. The letter with the test result will tell you what applies to you.
If the letter says that you can wait, then it is safe to do so.