HPV Test for WomenHomed IQs HPV Test is a screening test for cervical cancer in women. The test doesnt tell you whether you have cancer, but detects the presence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes cervical cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world, and while most infections clear themselves over time, some can persist in the body and cause health problems. Some types of HPV may cause warts or no symptoms at all.