Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted virus. Most infections cause no symptoms and clear within one to two years, but persistent infection with high-risk types such as HPV 16 and 18 can cause cervical cell changes that may lead to cancer if untreated. HPV is found with a cervical swab, and positive results are followed with Pap testing or colposcopy.
- Spread by
- Skin-to-skin sexual contact
- Symptoms
- Usually none; some types cause warts
- Test
- Cervical swab (HPV DNA), often with Pap
- If positive
- Pap, repeat test or colposcopy
- Prevention
- HPV vaccine, screening, condoms
- Cost guide
- Colposcopy ~₩50,000–150,000
What is HPV?
HPV is a group of more than 100 related viruses. About 40 types infect the genital area and are passed on through vaginal, anal or oral sex and close skin-to-skin contact. Condoms lower the risk but do not fully prevent it.
- Low-risk types(such as 6 and 11) can cause genital warts — see genital wart removal.
- High-risk types(such as 16, 18 and others) can cause cell changes in the cervix and, less often, the vulva, vagina, anus or throat.
Having HPV does not mean you or your partner were unfaithful; the virus can remain undetected for years.
How HPV testing works
| Test | What it checks | How |
|---|---|---|
| HPV test | Presence of high-risk HPV types; some tests identify 16/18 | Cervical swab |
| Pap test(cytology) | Abnormal cervical cells | Cervical swab, often the same sample |
| Colposcopy | Magnified look at the cervix; biopsy if needed | Speculum exam with a colposcope |
There is no routine HPV test for men, and HPV blood tests are not used for diagnosis.
What happens after a positive HPV result
- Results explained in English Your doctor explains which type was found and whether your Pap test is normal.
- HPV positive, normal cells Usually a repeat HPV/Pap test in about 12 months to see if the virus has cleared.
- HPV 16/18 or abnormal cells A colposcopy is usually recommended to look closely at the cervix and take a small biopsy if needed.
- Treatment of precancer Moderate or severe changes (CIN 2–3) are commonly removed with a LEEP procedure.
- Ongoing follow-up Regular testing continues until results return to normal.
There is no medicine that removes HPV itself; the immune system clears most infections, and follow-up aims to catch and treat any changes early.
Persistent high-risk HPV can cause abnormal cell changes on the surface of the cervix.
With follow-up and, when needed, removal of abnormal tissue, the cervix can return to a healthy surface.
Prevention: vaccination and screening
The HPV vaccine protects against the types that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts. In Korea, Gardasil 9 is given as 2 doses for ages 9–14 and 3 doses (0, 2 and 6 months) from age 15. It works best before exposure but can still benefit adults. See HPV vaccine in Seoul for foreigners for booking and costs.
- Korea's national program offers cervical screening every 2 years for women aged 20 and over enrolled in NHIS.
- Vaccinated women still need regular screening.
- Not smoking helps the body clear HPV.
Cost and insurance
At Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, costs depend on the tests needed. As a general guide, colposcopy is about ₩50,000–150,000 and LEEP about ₩100,000–300,000; a written estimate is given after consultation. National screening and medically necessary follow-up may be covered for NHIS members. English results and receipts are available for insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive HPV test mean I have cancer?
No. A positive result means the virus is present. Most infections clear on their own, and follow-up is designed to detect and treat any changes long before cancer develops.
Can HPV be cured?
There is no medicine that removes HPV, but the immune system clears most infections within one to two years. Warts and cell changes caused by HPV can be treated.
Should my partner be tested?
There is no approved routine HPV test for men. Partners often share HPV, so your result does not usually change what your partner needs to do.
Can I still get the HPV vaccine if I already have HPV?
Often yes. The vaccine does not treat an existing infection, but it can protect against other types you have not encountered. Your doctor can advise based on your age and history.
Is cervical screening free for foreigners in Korea?
Foreigners enrolled in NHIS are generally eligible for the national cervical screening program every 2 years from age 20. Others can test privately at their own cost.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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