The HPV test is a medical screening used to detect the presence of the human papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted infection. It is primarily recommended for women aged 30 and older, as certain types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer. The test can be done alongside a Pap smear, which checks for abnormal cells in the cervix. During the HPV test, a healthcare provider collects a sample of cells from the cervix. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. If the test is positive, further monitoring or treatment may be necessary to prevent potential health issues.