HPV Collection Kit
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To learn about the HPV kit collection process, visit our HPV Instructions page.
You might be wondering...
This test is suitable for anyone with a cervix. This kit may be for you if you meet one of the following criteria:
- It is recommended to start screening at age 25
- You have been sexually active, even if you are not sexually active right now
- You have had sexual contact with someone who has the HPV virus
- It has been more than three years since your last HPV screening or Pap smear (also known as a Pap test)
- Even if you have had an HPV vaccine or have been through menopause
This kit may not be for you if you meet any of these criteria:
- You have never had sexual intercourse
- You are pregnant or three months following a pregnancy
- You have had a total hysterectomy (including a complete removal of the cervix)
- You require immediate medical attention
Vaginal specimens undergo molecular testing to screen for 14 high-risk HPV strains: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66 & 68.
Results will indicate individual positive or negative results for 6 genotypes including 16, 18, 31, 45, 51 and 52. The remaining 8 genotypes are reported on in the following groups: P1 including genotype 33 & 58, P2 including genotypes 56, 59 & 66 and P3 including genotypes 35, 39 and 68.
No matter your result, it is strongly recommended you discuss your personal risk with a healthcare practitioner.
Most HPV infections do not have any signs or symptoms. Some HPV infections may cause genital warts. High-risk HPV infection of the cervix does not cause any signs and symptoms. If you require immediate medical attention, please consult your physician or nearest emergency room.
Collection method
Vaginal Swab for processing by accredited laboratories
Results turnaround
Available within 4-5 business days (excluding transit time).
Shipping details
Standard shipping (3-9 business days) is free for all test kit orders. Express shipping available (1-2 business days once shipped). We only ship within Canada.
Refund policy
All kit sales are final. Please see our refund policy on the FAQ page.
THE PROCESS
How it works
HEALTHCARE IS SELF-CARE
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Questions? We’ve got answers.
Switch Health’s HPV Collection Kit is only applicable for individuals with a cervix. If you have concerns about your health, please contact a health care providers. See here for more information on the cervix.
Individuals should inquire with their healthcare insurer to learn what coverage is available to them.
All results are digitally available to be downloaded in PDF format and/or printed via the Switch Health patient portal. It is the patient’s decision whether test results are shared with anyone else.
You can get a delivered anywhere Purolator and Canada Post provides service.
Results should be ready within 4-5 business days of being picked up by Purolator.
HPV is a very common virus with more than 100 strains or types. It spreads easily through sexual contact. It is estimated that 75 per cent of people will come into contact with HPV during their life. The virus usually goes away on its own without causing any problems, typically without symptoms. Sometimes symptoms may appear such as warts in the genital area that look like common skin warts.
Reference: Government of Canada. Human HPV Prevention and HPV vaccines (2017). Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/infectious-diseases/sexual-health-sexually-transmitted-infections/hpv-prevention-vaccines-questions-answers.html
Testing for HPV is recommended for sexually active individuals over 25 years of age with a cervix.
HPV tests looks for viruses that increase the risk of developing cancer. Pap tests looks for abnormal cell changes, typically caused by HPV, on the cervix that might turn into cervical cancer.
HPV vaccines protect individuals from high-risk HPVs, but immunity is not 100% and may wane over time. It’s still worth routinely testing for HPVs.
Reference: HPV Prevention and HPV Vaccines. Government of Canada. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/infectious-diseases/sexual-health-sexually-transmitted-infections/hpv-prevention-vaccines-questions-answers.html
If you are Transgender, it is best to talk to your healthcare provider to determine your specific screening needs.
Reference: As a transwoman, do I need to get screening for cervical cancer (2022). Canadian Cancer Society. https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/find-cancer-early/screening-in-lgbtq-communities/as-a-trans-woman-do-i-need-to-get-screened-for-cervical-cancer
Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if repeating the HPV test is right for you.
All testing devices used by Switch Health are authorized by Health Canada and are validated at accredited and licensed Canadian laboratories.
Currently, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover HPV testing. Individuals should inquire with their healthcare insurer to learn what coverage is available to them.
Test results and related information are only shared with the patient. There is no requirement to report a positive test result to Public Health, nor is there any requirement to share the result with partners. It is the patient’s decision whether test results are shared with anyone else.
Individuals who take a Switch Health HPV Collection Kit must meet criteria as outlined in the HPV Product page found here.
Standard shipping is 3-9 days, expedited 1-2 days(once shipped) shipping is available for an additional $25.
If you are using pick up, store the specimen at room-temperature and place the return package in the location identified just prior to the pickup window. If you are using drop-off, hold onto the package until Sunday evening or Monday morning to keep safe until pickup service is resumed.
Fourteen HPV genotypes are considered pathogenic or high-risk for the progression of cervical Disease. Multiple studies have linked genotypes 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68 to disease progression. Women with a persistent infection with one of these types have an increased risk for developing severe cervical dysplasia or cervical carcinoma.
Results will indicate individual positive or negative results for 6 genotypes including 16, 18, 31, 45, 51 and 52. The remaining 8 genotypes are reported on in the following groups: P1 including genotype 33 & 58, P2 including genotypes 56, 59 & 66 and P3 including genotypes 35, 39 and 68. No matter your result, it is strongly recommended you discuss your personal risk with a healthcare practitioner.
The HPV test can detect the risk of cervical cancer, one of the few types of cancer that can be prevented. Almost all cervical cancers, more than 99%, are associated with HPV. HPV infection doesn't mean you have cancer, but it can suggest an increased risk of it developing. Screening for HPV infection can help your healthcare provider provide the care and follow up you need.
A Pap test is looking for abnormal cervical cells from the sample and will not detect HPV.
There are many variations of HPV, but only a few can cause cancer. The body usually can protect itself against HPV infections by successfully clearing the infection resulting in no potential cell changes. However, HPV that does not clear can cause the cells in the cervix to become abnormal and potentially pre-cancerous.
If you have had a hysterectomy or pelvic surgery, it is best to speak to your healthcare provider to determine your specific screening needs.
Reference: Choosing Wisely (2019). Retrieved from https://www.choosingwisely.org/clinician-lists/asccp-paps-and-hpv-screening-after-hysterectomy/