You may have heard that Pap testing in Ontario has changed.
As of March 2025, Ontario has officially moved from traditional Pap tests to HPV testing as the primary way we screen for cervical cancer. This isn’t a step backward. It’s actually a meaningful upgrade in how we prevent cancer and catch risk earlier.
A Pap test looks for abnormal cervical cells under a microscope. In other words, it detects changes after they’ve already started.
The new HPV test looks for high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers. By identifying the virus first, we can detect risk earlier, often years before significant cell changes develop.
It’s a more sensitive and more accurate test.
The collection process is still the same as a Pap test. During a pelvic exam, we collect a small sample from the cervix with a gentle brush or swab.
The difference is in what the lab analyzes: HPV DNA instead of just cell changes.
Who should be screened and how often has slightly changed as well.
Cervical cancer screening is recommended if you:
- Have a cervix
- Are 25 years of age or older
- Have ever been sexually active
- Do not currently have symptoms like abnormal bleeding
- Are due for cervical screening
Screening begins at age 25 — not earlier — even if someone has been sexually active.
How often do I need screening now?
This is one of the biggest changes.
If your HPV test is negative, you only need screening every five years.
That may sound like a long time if you’re used to every three years. But because HPV testing is more accurate, research shows this longer interval is safe and effective.
What happens if the HPV test is positive?
First — take a breath. HPV is extremely common. Most people who are sexually active will have it at some point, and most infections clear on their own.
If high-risk HPV is detected, the lab automatically performs additional testing on the same sample to check for cell changes. Depending on those results, you may:
- Repeat testing sooner
- Or be referred for a colposcopy with a gynaecologist (this is a test that takes a closer look at the cervix to check what is actually going on in the tissue)
A positive HPV test does not mean you have cancer. It simply means we watch more closely.
What if I’ve had the HPV vaccine?
You still need screening.
The vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains, but not all of them. Screening remains an important part of prevention.
When can screening stop?
Most people can stop routine screening between ages 65 and 69 if their previous tests have been consistently negative.
If you have specific risk factors, your care plan may look a little different.
Why this change is actually good news!
This shift reflects decades of research and global evidence. HPV testing allows us to:
- Detect risk earlier
- Prevent more cancers
- Reduce unnecessary procedures
- Screen less often when risk is low
It’s a more proactive, more precise approach.
At Rooted, we believe screening should feel informed, not confusing or anxiety-provoking. If you’re unsure when you’re due, or if you’d like to talk through what this means for you personally, we’re here.
Preventive care is powerful. And this update is a step forward in protecting long-term cervical health.
Want more details?
For the official Ontario Cervical Screening Guidelines and HPV test information, visit the Ontario Cancer Screening Program FAQ sheet.
We still offer the standard pap test!
We cannot offer the HPV test as this is out of scope for Naturopathic Doctors. While this test is no longer considered adequate screening according to the Ontario Cervical Screening Program (you will still need to have an HPV test performed to fulfill the needs of this program), it can still be a useful tool for someone who would prefer to be screened more often, has questions about their gynaecological health or recent test results, or who may be struggling to get their HPV test done.
Check out this blog post here for further information.
Call or follow us on instagram or facebook to find out when our next Pap Clinic will be held with Dr. Sarah Kiss, ND.
Location: Rooted Naturopathic Clinic, Barrie
Call to Book: 705-792-6717