The Difference Between the HPV and Pap Test

At and after the age of 21, women should receive cervical cancer screenings. Depending on a woman’s age and risk factors, their provider may recommend a Pap test and/or an HPV test.

Samples for each of these tests are collected in the same way. However, there are differences between the tests and who might benefit from getting each type of test.

What is the difference between a Pap and an HPV test?

“Pap and HPV tests are different in what they’re looking for,” shares Bridget McLaughlin, CNM, a certified nurse midwife with ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology – Oregon.

A Pap test looks for precancerous cells or cancerous cells. An HPV test looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is a type of infection that can cause atypical cells to develop. The HPV test is one way to determine if you have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer before cancerous cells form, and hopefully prevent cervical cancer from ever developing.

Who should get a Pap vs. HPV test?

Your primary care provider will be able to recommend which test(s) is best for you based on your age and risk factors.

Most providers will recommend the following screening guidelines set forward by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG):

• Under 21 years old: No screening. 
• 21 – 29 years old: Pap test every three years regardless of sexual activity. HPV testing alone can be considered for women who are 25 to 29, but Pap tests are preferred.
• 30-65 years old: Pap test and HPV test every five years (co-testing), or a Pap test alone every three years, or an HPV test alone every five years.
• 65+ years old: No screening following prior adequate screening.

Your provider may recommend additional testing if you have any abnormal HPV or Pap test results. “If you have a normal Pap test, meaning there are no present abnormal cells, but a positive HPV test result, we may recommend you get tested more frequently or that further testing be done,” shares Bridget.

How are Pap and HPV tests performed?

Pap and HPV tests are both performed through a speculum exam. A speculum is a type of tool that the provider uses to look into the vagina. The provider will then use a spatula or brush to gently remove cells from the cervix.

For most women, this process isn’t painful. As your provider inserts the speculum, you may experience some light pressure and you feel light scratching as your provider collects the cells. Let your provider know if you experience any discomfort lasting more than a few minutes after the exam.

One sample can be used for both the Pap and HPV tests.

What happens to the sample after the exam?

After the cells are collected on the spatula or brush, the sample is put into a solution to preserve and protect the cells. The cell sample then goes to the lab.

At the lab, the laboratory technologist or technician examines the sample under a microscope. Depending on what test(s) your provider ordered, they will look for abnormal or cancerous cervical cells (Pap test) or the HPV infection (HPV test).

What happens if you have an abnormal test result?

If abnormal or cancerous cells are detected during a Pap test, your provider will likely order additional testing. Additional testing can help them identify the cause of the abnormal cells. If caused by an infection, medicine will be prescribed to treat the infection. If caused by HPV or an unknown cause, a diagnostic procedure, called a colposcopy, may be performed.

A colposcopy is a quick, outpatient procedure. Your provider will use a microscope to magnify the cervix and look for abnormalities. A small sample of cells, or biopsy, may be taken from the cervix during this procedure for additional testing.

Bridget shares that this information is important to determine your treatment plan. “Pap and HPV tests are cervical cancer screening tests, whereas additional testing, such as a colposcopy or biopsy, are diagnostic. Your provider will use all this information to determine the best path of management or treatment moving forward.”

Bridget McLaughlin, APRN-CNM
Bridget is a certified nurse midwife with ProMedica Physicians. View her profile. 

Revised June 1, 2026.