HPV stands for human papillomavirus. HPV can infect both men and women. For cervical cancer screening and Pap smear follow-up, an HPV test requires a sample of cells from the opening of the cervix. These cells are obtained by gently scraping the cervix with a swab or small brush. At-home HPV testing provides a swab to collect a sample of cells from the vagina.
If you got a positive HPV test and your Pap test was abnormal, your doctor will probably follow up with a colposcopy. Try to see a physician who specializes in this procedure. During a colposcopy, your doctor will look more closely at the cervix, vagina or vulva with a special microscope called a colposcope.