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How the HPV Self-Sampling Program Works

From getting your kit to receiving your results, our program is designed to be fast, easy, and affordable.

Here is what you can expect every step of the way.

From Kit to Result in 5 Simple Steps

Get your kit

Obtain an approved HPV self-sampling kit from the SLS Main Building in Cay Hill.

Collect your sample

Collect your vaginal sample using the collection device provided. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided with your kit.

WATCH THE 1-MINUTE VIDEO [ ▶︎ ]

Return your sample

Place your completed sample and lab form in the biohazard bag and return it to ANY SLS location.

Your sample is tested

The laboratory tests your sample for high-risk HPV and any additionally selected STDs.

Receive your result

Your results will be provided through the ONLINE PATIENT PORTAL.

HOW RESULTS WORK [ ▶︎ ]

About STD Testing

Chlamydia (CT)

Symptoms in women

Abnormal vaginal discharge, burning sensation when urinating, or pain during or after sex.

If left untreated, chlamydia can cause complications, including infertility, chronic pelvic pain and ectopic pregnancy. The department should approve the final clinical wording for this section.

Screening Guidelines

  • Women who are sexually active.

  • Providers might consider opt-out chlamydia and gonorrhea screening for adolescent and young adult females during clinical encounters.

  • Rectal chlamydia testing can be considered in females based on reported sexual behaviors and exposure, through shared clinical decision-making between the patient and provider.

Gonorrhea (NG)

Symptoms in women

Burning or stinging sensation when urinating, abnormal yellow, white or green vaginal discharge, pain during sex, and discomfort or aching in the lower belly or pelvic area.

Screening Guidelines

  • Women who are sexually active.

  • Pharyngeal and rectal gonorrhea screening can be considered in females based on reported sexual behaviors and exposure, through shared clinical decision-making between the patient and provider.

Trichomonas Vaginalis (TV)

Trichomonas vaginalis is caused by a parasite.

Symptoms in women

Pain and discomfort during sex or when urinating, discharge with an unpleasant odor, irritation, soreness, or redness around the opening of the vagina.

Screening Guidelines

  • Diagnostic testing for TV should be performed for women seeking care for vaginal discharge.

  • Consider screening for women receiving care in high-prevalence settings and asymptomatic women at high risk for infection. This screening should be conducted at intake and offered as opt-out screening.

What Happens Behind the Scenes?

Once you return your sample, it goes through the following laboratory process.

Sample Received

Your sample arrives at the SLS Microbiology Department.

Sample Check

It is checked for proper labeling and specimen integrity.

Laboratory Processing

Your sample is prepared and tested using a molecular HPV test.

Quality Assurance

All tests follow strict quality control procedures to ensure accurate results.

Results Released

Results are securely released to your online patient portal.

Your Privacy Is Protected

Your health information is confidential. Only you have access to your results, unless you request that your results also be shared with your primary doctor or gynecologist.

Need Help at Any Step?

Our team is here to support you. Contact the SLS Cytology Department with any questions.

Phone: +1 (721) 542-2518 , extensions 1042 and 1045

Email: cytology@sls.sx

Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Why Self-Sampling?

Who Is It For?

HPV self-sampling is for eligible individuals who are due for cervical cancer screening.

Check your eligibility on the Get a Kit page or ask your healthcare provider.

CHECK MY ELIGIBILITY

What If I Need Follow-Up?

If your result shows high-risk HPV, your healthcare provider will guide you through the next steps based on your result, age, and medical history.

HOW RESULTS WORK

Ready to Take the Next Step?

HPV self-sampling provides an additional option for cervical cancer screening within the SLS program.