The FDA Approved Self-Swab HPV Tests, But Are They Worth It? A Women’s Health Doctor Weighs In

Human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of more than 150 related viruses, has been known to infect more than 42 million Americans. Though women are traditionally screened for the virus via a Pap smear at a doctor’s office, two large lab companies are trying to offer an alternative with self-swabbing. But is it worth it? Below you’ll find more information about these new self-collection HPV tests and whether it’s something you should consider for yourself.

What is the self-collection HPV test?

In May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved two self-collection tests for detecting HPV in the cervix. These are the first of their kind to be approved in the United States, allowing patients to collect a sample themselves.

The downside? The tests will not yet be available for women to use at home and must be done in a health care setting. This means a private room inside a doctor's office or primary care facility, mobile clinic or a similar setting, ABC News reports.

How it will work: Patients will be able to insert the swab themselves (even at a doctor’s office) and have the sample sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results will be provided to the doctor who ordered the test, who then can share them with the patient.

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Why is the self-collection HPV test being offered?

Sexually transmitted HPV falls into two categories: low risk and high risk, a ccording to the National Cancer Institute . The high-risk viruses can lead to cervical cancer, as well as vaginal and vulvar cancer.

For that reason, regular screening is encouraged, as is the HPV vaccine. Traditionally, the screening tests to detect an HPV infection have been performed by gynecologists. They swab the patient’s cervix to collect a small sample of cells. These are then sent to a laboratory to be analyzed, with HPV test results delivered shortly thereafter.

The new self-collection tests are being offered as an alternative with the hopes that more people will take advantage and monitor their health, taking screening for cervical cancer to heart. “Many factors can contribute to individuals not participating in cervical cancer screening programs, such as access to healthcare, social and economic barriers, history of traumatic experience, cultural concerns and embarrassment,” pharmaceutical company Roche detailed in a press release . “Roche’s self-collection solution can help reduce these barriers by offering an alternative to clinician collection procedure.”

The self-collection screenings have begun to be offered at medical sites, and eventually the companies would like to expand availability. ABC reports that there is a desire to make the tests available for at-home use, which could potentially happen by year’s end if the FDA approves them specifically for at-home collection.

Is it worth using the self-collection HPV test?

You may be wondering if you should consider opting for the self-collection screening rather than making a formal appointment for a pap smear. If the tests become available for use at home, this may make it an even more appealing option.

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However, medical experts advise against using these self-screenings as a replacement for a Pap. One reason? Tests that focus on detecting HPV have a higher false negative result rate.

“Primary HPV screening has been shown to miss twice as many cervical cancers,” shares Dr. Alexandra Gillespie, a trailblazer in women’s health and founder of Path Advantage, a woman- and physician-owned pathology lab in Dallas. “Other studies have shown that up to 1 in 5 women with cervical cancer would be missed when only screening with HPV testing.”

Some women may also gravitate towards the new option because they are anxious or concerned about extreme physical discomfort that comes with a formal exam. But Gillespie says this isn’t a common experience.

“In the hands of an empathic and compassionate professional, most women should experience a Pap test as a brief, pain-free procedure,” she adds.

Sticking to a traditional exam with your gynecologist can ensure you not only get a cervical cancer screening but have an opportunity to address any other private health issues, as well.

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