An HPV test looks for DNA from HPV in cells from your cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb), which opens into the vagina. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that goes away on its own in most people.
What causes HPV in females?
HPV is easily spread from sexual skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it. You get it when your vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, or anus touches someone else's genitals or mouth and throat — usually during sex. HPV can be spread even if no one cums, and even if a penis doesn't go inside the vagina/anus/mouth.