Before you start
Your HPV test kit should contain a vaginal swab, a sample tube/container, a transport pouch, an instruction leaflet and a pre-addressed Freepost return mailing box.
Choose a time when you have privacy and feel relaxed. You can do the test at any time of day and during most of your menstrual cycle.
Avoid testing if:
- Your period is heavy (spotting is fine)
- You’ve had sex within the last 24 hours
- You’ve used vaginal medications, lubricants or douches within the last 24 hours
Getting ready
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Read all the instructions first
- Have everything laid out before you start
- Empty your bladder
- Relax – being tense makes it harder
Step-by-step guide
Step 1: Prepare forms and label
Make sure you read the instructions properly before starting your test.
Complete the request forms and labels provided. Peel off the completed tube label from the request form and apply it to the side of the specimen collection tube.
Step 2: Prepare the swab and tube
Wash your hands in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Remove swab from its packaging being careful not to touch the soft tip or lay the swab down. Use one hand to hold the plastic shaft in the middle of the black line.
Step 3: Insert the swab
Choose whatever position works for you: standing with one foot raised, sitting on the toilet with legs apart, squatting or lying down with knees bent. There’s no right or wrong position.
Carefully insert the swab into the opening of the vagina, about 2 inches (5cm), angling slightly back towards your spine. You don’t need to reach your cervix – the swab collects cells from the vaginal walls.
Step 4: Rotate the swab
Once inserted, gently rotate the swab for 20–30 seconds. Make sure the swab touches the vaginal walls so that moisture is absorbed by the swab. Withdraw the swab without touching skin.
Step 5: Place in the tube
While holding the swab in your hand, unscrew the transport tube cap. Do not spill tube contents.
Immediately place the swab into the specimen collections tube so that the black score line is at the top of the tube. Align black score line with the top edge of the tube and carefully break the swab shaft.
Discard the top of the swab shaft.
Screw the cap back firmly onto the transport tube. Insert the specimen collection tube into the transport pouch and seal.
Step 6: Label and clean up
Tear off the bottom section of your request form, which contains your tracked 24 return label.
Place the transport pouch now containing your labelled specimen collection tube and the completed top section of the request form into the returnable mailing box.
Step 7: Return your sample
Close the returnable mailing box and apply the tacked 24 label to the rear of the box, ensuring that the label is in the correct position and completely covers the label on the rear of the mailing return box. Ensure the mailing return box is secured closely before posting.
Discard any used and unused items responsibly.
Post the sample on the same day as collecting it.
What to expect after the test
Results typically take around five working days from receipt at the laboratory. You’ll receive your results, straight into your Perci Health record.
Possible results from an HPV swab:
Inadequate sample: The sample wasn’t sufficient for testing. You’ll be sent another kit. This is uncommon with self-sampling.
HPV not found (negative): No further action is needed. You’ll be advised to continue with routine NHS cervical screening. Your private self‑sample does not replace NHS cervical screening. You should still attend cervical screening when invited, every five years, even if your last HPV test was negative.
HPV found (positive): High-risk HPV has been detected. You will need to book in for a cervical screening test with your GP practice. During this appointment, a sample will be taken to check for both HPV and abnormal cervical cells.
After this cervical screening test, you may receive one of the following results:
HPV found, with no abnormal cells: If no abnormal cells are found you will be invited for a repeat cervical screen in 12 months.
HPV found, with abnormal cells: You’ll be referred for a colposcopy – a more detailed examination of your cervix.
Need help?
If your kit hasn’t arrived within seven working days, or if you need a replacement, please contact our Customer Success Team via hello@percihealth.com or on 020 3728 8848.