Frequently Asked Questions

• Who should take the test?

  Our test is for:

  • Women who want to know their HPV status.
  • Women who find smear tests uncomfortable or embarrassing and have not had a smear in the last 3 years.
  • Women who have been given a positive HPV result and want to know which subtype they have.

• How does the test work?

  This test consists of a home collection kit, that we post to you to collect your own sample.   The kit arrives in discreet packaging and contains everything you need to collect the sample; instruction leaflet, swab wand (Qvintip) , pathology form and self addressed postage paid return envelope. The leaflet will give you instructions on how to collect your sample. It is important that you follow the instructions on the leaflet carefully. Once the kit is posted back to the laboratory you will be contacted when your results are ready  and will be sent to you by your preferred method.

• Who processes my sample?

  All our self test samples and the majority of our clinic samples are processed by The Doctor’s Laboratory who are the largest independent provider of clinical laboratory diagnostic services in the UK.

  We reserve the right not to process any sample that is sent back to us after 6 months of the initial order and we recommend that all samples are returned within a month of receiving the kit.

• When will my test kit arrive?

  Kits generally arrive within 2 working days if ordered before 3pm.

• Will the kit need to be signed for?

  No.  The kit will arrive via Royal Mail and will fit easily through a standard letterbox.

• How long before I get my results?

  The results of this HPV test should be ready within 3-4 working days from when your sample arrives at the laboratory.

• How do I get my results?

  It is your choice as to how your results are delivered. We offer delivery of results via email, sms or post.

• What happens if my test shows the presence of the virus?

  If the test is positive, this is very likely nothing to worry about.  1 out of 6 women will test positive and most will shake it off through their own immune system.  However, you have three options.

  • If you haven’t had a smear in the last 3 years, go and see your GP for a smear test
  • Be referred for a colposcopy (a more specific examination of the cervix carried out by a specialist).  As the HPV test sits outside of the NHS cervical cancer screening programme, an NHS GP / local NHS hospital may refuse to do this for you without an abnormal smear test.
  • Contact us for smear test, colposcopy or if you have any questions.

  For more information about smear tests and colposcopy please visit www.london-colposcopy.com

• What happens if my test is negative?

  Negative test (absence of HPV) is very reassuring and is unlikely to be associated with any smear / cervical abnormality.  We would recommend that you repeat this test annually (we will remind you if you so wish). Like any screening test, HPV test can also be falsely negative in a small proportion of cases and we therefore recommend that this test is taken in addition to the national cervical screening programme and that all women taking the test attend smear tests regularly.

• Is this confidential?

  Yes. Your results and details are 100% confidential.  We will not inform your GP or anyone without your permission.

• Is the test uncomfortable?

  No.  Most women do not find this uncomfortable and find the test much more comfortable than having a smear test.

• How does my payment show on my bank statement?

  The statement line on your bank statement will show as ‘London Gynaecology Ltd’