A Cervical Screening Result Is Not a Complete STI Check

If you want to know whether you have a sexually transmitted infection, tell your clinician that concern explicitly. A cervical screening result does not answer every STI question.¹

Cervical screening: HPV and cervical cells

NHS² guidance describes checking a cervical sample for high-risk types of HPV that can cause cell changes. If those types are found, the sample is checked for changes in the cervical cells. The purpose is to help prevent cervical cancer.²

STI testing: clarify what was ordered

CDC¹ guidance says Pap tests and HPV tests should not be considered screening tests for STIs. Having one of those tests does not mean a separate STI check was performed at the appointment.¹

Ask: “Which tests did I have, and which infections did they check for? Do my concerns need a separate assessment?”¹

Keep the two plans clear

Have the clinician explain your cervical screening result and its follow-up. Raise the STI question separately so you understand what has and has not been assessed.¹²

Down There, Decoded includes an appointment script. Use it to organize questions about your results and next steps. See the book.