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HPV Testing in Busan

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is very common, and most infections clear by themselves. Testing for high-risk HPV types helps find women who need closer follow-up to prevent cervical cancer. Busan OB/GYN clinics offer HPV tests on their own or together with a Pap smear.

What an HPV test is

There are more than 100 HPV types. A small group of high-risk types , especially HPV 16 and 18, cause most cervical cancers when an infection persists for years. Low-risk types such as 6 and 11 cause genital warts. Clinical HPV tests look for high-risk types in cells from the cervix; many Korean clinics also offer genotyping panels that list which types were found.

HPV test vs Pap smear

  • Pap smear (cytology) looks for abnormal cells.
  • HPV test looks for the virus that can cause those changes.
  • Co-testing does both from the same sample.

Korea's National Cancer Screening Program provides free cervical cytology every two years for women aged 20 and over. HPV testing is commonly added when cytology is abnormal, or requested separately.

When to get tested

  • Routine cervical screening, depending on your age and history
  • Follow-up of an abnormal Pap result
  • After treatment for cervical precancer
  • If you would like a fuller picture of your cervical health

What the visit involves

The doctor uses a speculum and a small brush to collect cells from the cervix, which takes a minute or two. Avoid sex, vaginal medicines and douching for a day or two before, and try to book when you are not on your period. Results usually take about a week.

Understanding your result

  • Negative : low risk; continue routine screening.
  • Positive for high-risk HPV : does not mean cancer. Your doctor may repeat testing later or recommend colposcopy, especially for HPV 16/18 or abnormal cytology.

There is no treatment for the virus itself, but abnormal cells can be treated effectively when found early.

Cost and insurance

Cytology through the national screening program is free for eligible women. HPV tests requested for screening are typically self-pay, while HPV testing after an abnormal result may be partly covered under National Health Insurance (NHI). Ask the clinic for a quote.

Tips for foreigners

  • Ask whether you are eligible for the national screening; this generally depends on NHI enrollment.
  • Bring your ARC or passport and previous screening results if you have them.
  • Call ahead about English-speaking staff (1330 can interpret).

See international patients .

Related

Elsewhere in Korea

When to get help sooner

See a doctor promptly for bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods or after menopause, persistent unusual discharge, or pelvic pain. Do not wait for your next routine screening if you have these symptoms.

Busan clinics for HPV testing

These clinics are listed in our directory with STD testing or extended hours. Call ahead to confirm HPV testing options and prices.

Clinic Area Phone Listed features
Roaen OB/GYN Clinic Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) 051-804-3000 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Eroom Women's Clinic (Seomyeon) Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) Not listed Sat, STD tests, Fertility
Mirae Women's Hospital Gaegeum 051-890-9999 Sat, STD tests
Queens Park Women's Hospital Jwa-dong (Jangsan) 051-715-4100 Delivers, Sat, STD tests
Eve & Adam Women's Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-743-7585 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Samsung Jeil OB/GYN Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-747-3999 Sat, STD tests, Fertility
Sehwa Hospital Oncheon-dong Not listed Sat, STD tests, Fertility
Mari Women's Clinic Daeyeon-dong (Kyungsung-Pukyong Univ) 051-626-1009 Sat, STD tests
She's Bon OB/GYN Clinic Suyeong / Millak area Not listed Sat, STD tests
L Women's Clinic Hadan-dong 051-207-2727 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
The Mizwell OB/GYN Clinic Hwamyeong-dong 051-365-3575 Female doctor, Delivers, Sat, STD tests, Fertility

HPV testing FAQ

  • Does a positive HPV test mean I have cancer?

    No. Most high-risk HPV infections clear within a year or two. A positive result means you need follow-up so any abnormal cells can be found and treated early.

  • Is HPV included in the national cervical screening?

    The national program provides cervical cytology (Pap smear). HPV testing is usually added after an abnormal result or requested separately at your own cost.

  • Can my partner be tested for HPV?

    There is no routinely recommended HPV test for men. Partners usually share HPV, and it does not imply infidelity, as infections can stay silent for years.

  • Should I still get the HPV vaccine if I tested positive?

    The vaccine does not treat existing infection but may protect against types you have not had. Discuss it with your doctor.