Is HPV self-testing reliable?

The University of Michigan conducted two studies comparing the efficacy of human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling vs. speculum-based testing.

The 193 participants were aged 25-65 years and “either undergoing a routine screening or were at risk for cervical cancer,” according to a release. Each person self-sampled with a vaginal swab and was given a speculum exam. Specimens were analyzed for “15 types of high-risk HPV types.”

The researchers found equal results from both testing types.

Another study showed that most women with disabilities prefer self-testing, calling it ‘“simple”, “comfortable”, and “feasible.”’

The studies are published in Preventive Medicine Reports and JAMA Network Open.

University of Michigan release on Newswise