PAPS, HPV, & STI Testing

Overview

The page focuses on cervical cancer prevention through screening and offers both:

Public BC Cervix Screening Program options
Private-pay HPV and Pap testing options

BC Public Cervix Screening Program

BC Public Cervix Screening Program

Under current BC guidelines:

Screening starts at age 25
Primary test: High-risk HPV testing
Routine interval: Every 5 years (if results are negative)
Pap testing is used selectively (e.g., follow-up of positive HPV results)
Screening typically ends at age 69, if appropriate
Fully covered for eligible residents with MSP
Automated recall and reminder system through BC Cancer
This program is evidence-based and highly effective at preventing cervical cancer at the population level.
Learn more: BC Cancer – Cervix Screening Program

Private Testing Options

Private HPV & Pap Testing at Our Clinic

We offer private-pay screening for individuals who want:

Screening before age 25
Screening between public program intervals
Pap testing by preference
Combined HPV + Pap co-testing
More frequent monitoring (e.g., every 1–3 years)
Additional reassurance
Personalized risk assessment
Available without a MSP card- non-residents of BC

Your Options May Include:

High-risk HPV DNA testing
Pap (cytology) testing
HPV + Pap co-testing
Follow-up planning tailored to your history
Preventative and targeted treatment recommendations

Public vs. Private Screening,
What’s the Difference?

Start Age

Primary Test

Interval

Cost

Recall System

Flexibility

BC Public Program

25

HPV

Every 5 Years (if negative)

Covered by MSP

Provincial Reminder System

Guideline-Based

Clinic Approach

18+ (individualized)

HPV, Pap, or Co-testing

Customized (1–5 years depending on preference & risk)

Private-pay

Direct clinic follow-up

Personalized approach

Is Private Screening Right for You?

Private screening may be appropriate if you:

Have a history of abnormal results
Are immunocompromised
Feel uncomfortable waiting 5 years between tests
Prefer co-testing for additional reassurance
Want screening before age 25
Value direct clinician-guided follow-up
No not reside in BC, or do not have MSP card

We follow evidence-based medicine while supporting patient autonomy and informed choice.

Our Approach

Thorough consultation
Gentle sample collection
Clear explanation of results
Evidence-based follow-up recommendations
Ongoing care if abnormalities are identified
Our goal is to provide clarity, reassurance, and proactive cervical health management.
Book Your Pap/ HPV Screening Appointment
If you are unsure whether public or private screening is right for you, we are happy to review your history and help you decide.
Contact our clinic today to schedule your HPV or Pap screening appointment.

STI testing

STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. STD or STI?

The term STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) is now commonly used in the place of STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease). STI is more encompassing, including infections that may be asymptomatic.

There are many types of STIs, including: