When did doctors start testing for hpv?

Good question: People frequently interpret abnormal pap smears as showing effects of hpv without actually testing for hpv and convey this to patients as being + for hpv. Actual testing for high risk hpv combined with pap became a screening alternative in 2004 and incorporated into guidelines in 2006. In 2012, combined pap/hpv testing every 5 yrs became the preferred screening for women over 30.

HPV testing: Hpv testing has been around for the last decade. New guidelines show it is only beneficial for women 30 and over.