HPV, herpes and genital symptoms: which test answers what?

New sores, blisters or growths

A clinician can examine a new lesion and decide whether a sample is useful. Herpes tests can involve swabbing a lesion. A general urine or blood panel does not replace examining a new sore, blister or wart. Similar symptoms can have different causes, so seek care while changes are still visible if possible.

HPV tests and prevention

HPV tests used in cervical screening focus on specific cancer-related types. They do not answer every question about genital warts or infection elsewhere. Ask a clinician or municipality about current screening and HPV vaccination eligibility in Japan. If you are pregnant or have severe symptoms, get medical advice promptly so the care team can choose an appropriate assessment.