HPV Self-Sampling: How Self-Screening is Making Cancer Detection More Accessible
- athenawomenspecialist
- Jul 24
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 1
Cervical cancer is a serious health concern, but it's also one of the most preventable cancers thanks to effective screening programmes. In Singapore, more than 200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and, sadly, 70 lives are lost to the disease. While regular screening and early detection are key, various barriers can prevent women from getting the necessary check-ups.
Fortunately, self-sampling for HPV (Human Papillomavirus), a common virus that can cause cervical cancer, is now making cancer screening more accessible and convenient for women across the island. This can be the first step before getting an HPV vaccine in Singapore, as part of comprehensive care for your cervical health.
Why Cervical Cancer Screening Still Faces Barriers in Singapore
Despite Singapore's robust healthcare system, cervical cancer screening rates reveal room for improvement. According to the 2019 National Population Health Survey, while 88.5% of Singaporean women aged 25 to 74 years reported being aware of cervical cancer screening tests, only about one in two women had undergone screening within the recommended 3-yearly timeframe. The barriers to screening include:
Time constraints and busy schedules: Juggling work, family, and other commitments can make it difficult to schedule and attend clinic appointments.
Discomfort and embarrassment during traditional Pap smear procedures: The intimate nature of a Pap smear can be a source of anxiety for some women.
Limited awareness among some women: Some women may not fully understand the importance of regular screening or the available options.
Access to healthcare facilities: While Singapore has notable healthcare infrastructure, accessibility can still be a challenge for some, especially those living further from clinics.
Introducing HPV Self-Sampling by Dr Ida Ismail-Pratt
Dr Ida Ismail-Pratt leads the HPV self-sampling program at Athena Women's Specialist. A Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist with over 25 years of medical experience, she received her specialist accreditation (MRCOG UK) in 2010 and was awarded Fellowship of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRCOG UK) in 2023. At Athena Women's Specialist, she has established a comprehensive cervical screening service that includes:
Evidence-based risk assessment protocols
Clear follow-up pathways for abnormal results
Integration with colposcopy services when needed
Patient education materials
What is HPV Self-Sampling?
HPV self-sampling allows individuals to privately collect a vaginal sample for cervical cancer screening, without a healthcare provider present. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for HPV testing.
How it Works:
Obtaining the Kit: Self-sampling kits are available through healthcare providers like Athena Women's Specialist.
Sample Collection: The kit usually contains a swab and clear, easy-to-follow instructions on how to collect the sample. The process is generally simple and involves inserting the swab a short distance into the vagina and rotating it for a specified amount of time.
Sending the Sample: After collection, the swab is placed in a provided container and sent to the clinic for analysis.
Receiving Results: The clinic will analyse the sample for the presence of high-risk HPV types. Results are typically communicated to the individual through their healthcare provider, like Dr Ida, or directly, depending on the programme. At Athena Women's Specialist, Dr Ida ensures you receive clear and comprehensive guidance on your results.
HPV Self-Sampling vs. Traditional Pap Smear
While both self-sampling and traditional Pap smear aim to detect cervical cancer risk, they differ in several key aspects:
Aspect | HPV Self-Sampling | Traditional Pap Smear |
Collection Method | Self-collected in private | Performed by a healthcare provider during a pelvic exam |
Comfort Level | Comfortable, minimally invasive | May cause discomfort or embarrassment |
Time Required | Quicker process; sample collected privately in just a few minutes. | Requires a longer clinic visit; test performed by a healthcare provider. |
Frequency | Every 5 years (if HPV negative and aged 30+) | Every 3 years (ages 25-29) |
Benefits of HPV Testing Without a Doctor Visit
The advantages of HPV self-sampling include:
Enhanced privacy: Allows you to collect your sample discreetly without the presence of a healthcare provider, offering a more comfortable screening experience.
Reduced anxiety and embarrassment: Avoids the potential discomfort associated with a traditional pelvic exam.
Increased access to screening participation: Self-sampling can increase participation in cervical cancer screening programmes.
Empowerment in managing personal health: Allows women to take control of their health and participate in their cervical cancer screening.
What About the HPV Vaccine in Singapore?
At Athena Women's Specialist, HPV vaccination is offered as a crucial complement to cervical cancer screening. The clinic provides:
Gardasil 9, which covers 7 high-risk HPV types plus 2 types that cause genital warts
Vaccination for both men and women aged 9-45 years
Professional consultation to determine vaccination suitability
While Secondary 1 girls in national schools receive free HPV vaccination, private vaccination at Athena offers:
Flexibility in scheduling
Choice of vaccine type
Personalised medical advice
Even after vaccination, regular screening remains essential as the vaccine doesn't protect against all HPV types. Dr Ida can help develop a personalised screening schedule based on your vaccination status and risk factors.
Who Should Consider HPV Self-Sampling?
HPV self-sampling is particularly suitable for:
Women aged 30 and above
Those who experience anxiety about traditional Pap smears.
Women who have delayed screening due to various barriers.
Those seeking a more convenient screening option.
Individuals who are overdue for screening.
Consult Dr Ida for HPV Self-Sampling and Vaccine in Singapore
Don't delay your cervical cancer screening. You can take control of your cervical health, at your convenience, with HPV self-sampling.
Dr Ida and her team are ready to help, prioritising your comfort at every step, whether it’s HPV screening or vaccination in Singapore.
Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to answer any of your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HPV self-sampling?
HPV self-sampling is a method that allows individuals to collect their own vaginal sample for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing. This can be done in a private setting, such as at home or in a healthcare facility, using a self-sampling kit. It is an alternative to the traditional clinician-collected Pap smear and is designed to make cervical cancer screening more accessible.
How does HPV self-collection work?
A person uses a provided kit, which typically includes a swab or a brush, to collect a sample of cells from their vagina. The kit includes instructions on how to perform the collection. After collection, the sample is sent to a laboratory for HPV testing.
Is HPV self-collection a replacement for clinician-collected cervical cancer screening?
No, HPV self-collection is not a complete replacement for clinician-collected screening. It is an alternative for those who face barriers to traditional screening methods. Individuals who do not face these barriers should continue with clinician-administered sampling.
What are the benefits of HPV self-sampling?
The main benefits of HPV self-sampling include increased privacy, comfort, and convenience. It can help overcome barriers such as embarrassment, discomfort with pelvic exams, and difficulty accessing healthcare facilities. This can lead to higher participation rates in cervical cancer screening, especially among under-screened populations.
How are the HPV screening and Pap test different?
An HPV test specifically detects the presence of high-risk HPV DNA, while a Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for abnormal cell changes on the cervix. A key difference for the patient is that HPV testing can be done via a self-collected sample, whereas a Pap test requires a pelvic exam by a clinician.
What does a positive HPV test result mean?
A positive HPV test result indicates the presence of one or more high-risk HPV strains. It does not mean you have cervical cancer. However, it does mean there is a higher risk of developing precancerous lesions. Further follow-up with a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the next steps, which may include a colposcopy.
Is an HPV test painful?
HPV tests, including self-sampling, are generally not considered painful. Some people may experience slight discomfort during the sample collection, but it is typically less uncomfortable than a traditional Pap smear.
