HPV Test in Singapore: Everything You Need to Know

What is an HPV Test?

A Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test is a screening procedure used to detect high-risk HPV strains that can lead to cervical cancer. In Singapore, this test is a crucial part of women’s health screenings and is often recommended alongside a Pap smear.

Why is the HPV Test Important?

✅ Early Detection of High-Risk HPV – Identifies HPV strains that may cause cervical cancer. ✅ Cervical Cancer Prevention – Helps detect abnormal cervical cell changes early. ✅ Safe and Accurate – A simple, non-invasive test with reliable results. ✅ Recommended for Women Over 30 – Helps in long-term reproductive health monitoring.

Who Should Get an HPV Test in Singapore?

🔹 Women 30 years and older as part of regular cervical cancer screening. 🔹 Women with abnormal Pap smear results. 🔹 Those with multiple sexual partners or a history of HPV-related conditions.

📌 Women under 30 typically do not need an hpv test Singapore unless medically advised, as the body often clears HPV naturally at a younger age.

Where to Get an HPV Test in Singapore?

In Singapore, HPV tests are available at:

🏥 Public Hospitals & Polyclinics – Subsidized screenings for eligible women. 🏥 Private Clinics & Gynaecologists – Comprehensive screenings with faster results. 🏥 STD Clinics – Confidential HPV and STI screenings.

How is the HPV Test Done?

The HPV test is similar to a Pap smear and takes only a few minutes.

Procedure:

1️⃣ Preparation – Avoid sexual activity, vaginal creams, and douching 48 hours before the test. 2️⃣ Sample Collection – A doctor collects a small sample of cervical cells using a soft brush. 3️⃣ Laboratory Analysis – The sample is tested for high-risk HPV strains. 4️⃣ Results – Typically available within a few days to a week.

Understanding Your HPV Test Results

✔️ Negative Result – No high-risk HPV detected → Low risk of cervical cancer. ❌ Positive Result – High-risk HPV detected → Additional tests (e.g., Pap smear, colposcopy) may be required.

A positive HPV test does not mean you have cancer, but further monitoring is needed.

HPV Test vs. Pap Smear in Singapore

Feature	HPV Test	Pap Smear
Purpose	Detects HPV virus	Detects abnormal cervical cells
Recommended Age	30+ years	25+ years
Testing Frequency	Every 5 years	Every 3 years
Sample Collection	Cervical swab	Cervical cell sample

Cost of HPV Test in Singapore

💰 Public Clinics & Polyclinics: Subsidized rates for eligible women (~$15 to $50). 💰 Private Clinics & Gynaecologists: Varies from $80 to $250, depending on the clinic. 💰 STD Clinics: Pricing depends on test packages and additional screenings.

HPV Prevention: Reduce Your Risk

✔️ Get the HPV Vaccine – The Gardasil 9 vaccine protects against high-risk HPV strains. ✔️ Practice Safe Sex – Use condoms to lower the risk of HPV transmission. ✔️ Regular Screenings – Combine HPV testing with Pap smears for early detection. ✔️ Healthy Lifestyle – A strong immune system can help clear HPV naturally.

When Should You See a Doctor?

📌 If your HPV test results are positive. 📌 If you have abnormal vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain. 📌 If you need advice on HPV vaccination and testing options.

Final Thoughts

An HPV test in Singapore is a vital screening tool for cervical cancer prevention. Women over 30 years old should undergo routine HPV and Pap smear tests to safeguard their reproductive health.