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As part of the , the province has announced it is going to use Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing rather than Pap smear tests as a primary way to screen for cervical cancer.

The cervix is part of the female reproductive tract, and is the opening to the uterus.

One of the causes of cervical cancer has been HPV infection — usually transmitted through sexual activity. In fact, LifeLabs of sexually active individuals will get one HPV infection in their lifetime.

Some types of HPV cause cervical cancer, as the infection can cause cell changes in the cervix which may become cancerous before you feel any symptoms, the province said.

Since the 1980s, health practitioners have typically used something called a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer, where a swab of the cervix is tested for abnormal cells.

“The Pap test has served us well, but the HPV test is better at finding those early cancers,” Erika Nicholson, ‘s cancer systems and innovation vice-president, said.

In 2023, approximately 1,550 Canadians were diagnosed with cervical cancer and 400 died from it, .

Not only is there now an HPV vaccine that can help prevent potential cervical cancer, but regular screening is also aiding survival rates.

The new HPV test

Prince Edward Island, Quebec and British Columbia have already switched over to doing the new HPV test.

They are recommended for people with cervices aged 25 to 69 years old who have had sex — even if you have had the HPV vaccine. A test should be done every five years.

It may feel similar to a Pap test, as a doctor, nurse practitioner or midwife uses a small brush to take cells from the cervix. A lab can test the cells for types of HPV and cell changes, ��������.��

The cervical screening test checks for cancer-causing types of HPV.

“You will get the results of your cervical screening test by mail,” Cancer Care Ontario said. “The person who did your test will also get a copy of your results and can answer any questions you may have.”

If you have abnormal test results, you may need a cervical colposcopy, which is a more thorough exam where a biopsy is taken and sent for further testing.

One , with 19,009 women, showed using the HPV testing can spot precancerous cells earlier than a routine Pap test.

Take home kit

One of the perks to the new test is that HPV home-testing kits are also available, meaning it can be done at home.

In Ontario, HPV testing is now provincially covered, and you can speak with your health care provider to determine your eligibility for provincially covered testing.

However, for those without OHIP coverage, a , which includes the return shipping. It also has a diagnostic test, at-home collection supplies and a signed request form.

Booking a test without OHIP coverage , with a special requisition form for Ontario.