Why HPV self-testing is done
HPV self-testing can find out if you have certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
Some high-risk types of HPV can cause abnormal changes to the cells in your cervix. This increases your chance of getting cervical cancer.
You can do the test yourself, instead of having cervical screening at your GP surgery.
If your test results show you have HPV, it does not mean you have cancer. You'll be invited to book a cervical screening appointment to check for abnormal cell changes in your cervix.
Abnormal cell changes can become cervical cancer if they're not monitored or treated.
Cervical screening helps to find abnormal cell changes early, which can mean they're easier to treat.
Who HPV self-testing is for
HPV self-testing is currently being offered to some women and anyone with a cervix aged 30 to 65 who have not had cervical screening after being invited in the past.
You can still do the test if:
- you're going through or have been through the menopause
- you've had the HPV vaccine
It's your choice if you want to do the test. You can also choose to have cervical screening done at a GP surgery or a sexual health clinic instead, if you'd like.
When not to do the HPV self-test
Do not do a self-test if:
- you're on your period
- you're pregnant
- you've been pregnant in the past 3 months
- you've used vaginal creams, washes, lubricants or medicines (such as ovules or pessaries), vaginal contraception or condoms in the past 3 days – wait at least 3 days before doing the test
- you've recently had surgery on your womb, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina or vulva – wait 3 months after surgery before doing the test
How to get an HPV self-test kit
You need to be invited to take part in HPV self-testing.
You may be invited through the NHS App, or by text or letter. Your invite will tell you how to order your test kit online.
If you do not want to be invited for cervical screening in the future, including HPV self-testing, you can opt out of cervical screening invitations online, or ask your GP to remove you from the screening list.
How to do HPV self-testing
You can do your HPV self-test at home. You use a swab (like a cotton bud) to take a sample from just inside your vagina. You do not have to reach your cervix.
Your test kit will include a plastic container, a swab, an envelope, and instructions on how to do the test.
How you do the test depends on which type of test kit you have. Read the instructions carefully before you do the test.
When you've done the test, you'll post your swab to the lab to be checked for high-risk types of HPV. You'll need to post it within 24 hours after doing the test. Postage is free and you do not need a stamp.
How to use your Copan FLOQSwabs HPV self-testing kit
This video describes how to do HPV self-testing at home if you've received a test kit that says Copan FLOQSwabs on the label.
Media review due: 20 August 2029
How to use your Hologic Aptima HPV self-testing kit
This video describes how to do HPV self-testing at home if you've received a test kit that says Hologic Aptima on the label.
Media review due: 20 August 2029
Help and support from the HPV self-testing helpline
You can call the HPV self-testing helpline on 0300 303 2724 for more help and information about doing the test, including:
- ordering a kit over the phone
- what to do if you're unsure whether you can do the test
- support with doing the test if you have a disability
- getting test kit instructions in alternative formats, including Braille and other languages
The helpline is open:
- 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday
- 8am to 4pm on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays
You can also use Relay UK by dialling 18001 before the helpline number from a textphone, or use the Relay UK app.
Getting the results of your HPV self-test
You'll usually get the results of your HPV self-test within 14 days of sending your sample.
You'll get your results in a message to your NHS App, or by letter if you do not have the NHS App.
Sometimes you may be asked to do the test again if the result is not clear. This does not mean you have cervical cancer.
If you do not get your results within 14 days, you can contact the HPV self-testing helpline on 0300 303 2724.
What the results of HPV self-testing mean
HPV negative
Your test did not find HPV. You do not need to do anything else.
Most people get this result, and it means you have a low chance of getting cervical cancer.
You'll automatically be invited to make a cervical screening appointment in 5 years, unless this would be on, or after, your 65th birthday.
Even if your results do not show HPV, there's a chance you could get HPV in the future.
It's important to know the symptoms of cervical cancer and to see your GP if you have symptoms you're worried about.
HPV positive
Your test shows you have HPV and you'll be invited to book a cervical screening appointment.
Cervical screening is usually done at your GP surgery or sexual health clinic.
A healthcare professional will use a soft brush to take a small sample of cells from your cervix. Your sample will be checked for abnormal changes that can cause cancer.
The healthcare professional will also talk to you about what happens next, and will be able to answer any questions you might have.
Most people who have an HPV positive result do not have cervical cancer, and will not get cervical cancer in the future. But it's important to go to your cervical screening appointment to get checked.