First time? We have you covered.

Screening collects cells and tests for high-risk HPV, as nearly all cervical cancer is caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus).

Screening is recommended based on age and anatomy, not sexual history. Anyone with a cervix between 25 and 65 should screen on schedule, regardless of whether they have ever been sexually active. HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, not only through penetrative sex. The recommendation applies universally in this age group.

Yes. The HPV vaccine provides strong protection against the most common high-risk HPV types but does not protect against all of them. Vaccinated people should screen on the same schedule as unvaccinated people. The vaccine reduces risk significantly but does not eliminate the need for routine screening.

The Teal Wand is a soft-tipped self-collection device with the same profile as a standard tampon applicator. It only needs to be inserted a few inches. You are in complete control and can go at whatever pace feels comfortable. If you have specific concerns, you can message a Teal Medical provider through your portal before collecting.

No referral is required. Teal’s telehealth platform provides everything you need to screen from home: the provider visit, prescription, kit, lab testing, results review, and follow-up support. If you have an existing provider, we encourage you to share your results to maintain a complete health record.

A positive result means high-risk HPV was detected in your sample. It does not mean you have cancer. Most HPV infections clear on their own without causing harm. Your Teal Medical provider will review your result, explain which HPV type was found, and advise on next steps. For many people, the next step is simply monitoring with another screening at a shorter interval.

Follow established guidelines, generally every 3–5 years, or more frequently if your provider recommends. At-home screening with the Teal Wand is every 3 years.

A primary HPV test checks your sample directly for the presence of high-risk HPV strains. It is different from a Pap smear, which looks at cell changes under a microscope. The American Cancer Society currently recommends primary HPV testing as the preferred cervical cancer screening method because it is more sensitive at detecting the underlying cause of cervical cancer.

In most cases, yes. The majority of HPV infections clear on their own within one to two years without causing any health problems. Screening exists because in a small percentage of cases, HPV persists and can cause cell changes over many years that may develop into cervical cancer. Routine screening catches those cases early.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus. Most sexually active people are exposed to at least one type of HPV at some point. It spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact, including but not limited to sexual contact. Most people who have HPV never know it because it rarely causes symptoms. Certain high-risk types can, if they persist, lead to cervical cancer over time.

The American Cancer Society recommends starting cervical cancer screening at age 25. Screening continues through age 65 for people with adequate prior screening and normal results. This applies regardless of HPV vaccination status or sexual history.