Hi,  ALL women between 25 and 65 should be screened.  I have HPV  and there's no way I contracted it sexually.  There are other ways we can get it, though I've no idea what they are.  Two months ago I went for my routine test and was surprised to test pos for HPV.  Normally my sample would have then been tested for abnormal cells, but unfortunately there weren't enough cells, so I have to wait three months and then have another test.  Now two months through, and anxious, even though I know everything will probably be OK.  The reason I know I didn't get it sexually is that I've only had one partner, and he has only had me.  I did some googling and found that when a group of nuns were tested a significant number tested positive.  The NHS say that it's only spread sexually, yet they also stress that ALL woman should be screened, whether or not they've had sexual contact.  So please get screened.  As for it hurting, I've been having tests for 35 yrs.  Some have been painless, others mildly uncomfortable.  My last one was sore, probably because my cervix will have shrunk upwards with age.  I'm prepared for this one in a month's time to be sore, but I don't care.  I'll take any pain. Sounds as if your nurse gave you wrong info.  Speak to a GP.  If you're told the same thing make him/her justify him/herself.  Ask why NHS advice is for all women to be tested if you're being told you don't need a test.  They can't refuse you.  Get a test but don't worry.  You'll probably test neg and can then forget about it for 5 yrs.  Don't be put off by idea of pain.  It's very quick, even when it hurts.