HPV is the most common STD, and at least 80% of sexually active people will get it at some time in their lives. The body usually clears HPV on its own without causing any problems, but some types of HPV can lead to certain kinds of cancer while other types of HPV can lead to Genital Warts.
Genital warts are typically diagnosed through a visual examination. Your health care provider may apply a weak vinegar solution because the acidity will make the warts turn white and become more visible. There is a pap test that works as an early detection for women under 30 to see if any changes have taken place in cells of the cervix, through a simple swab. The HPV test is performed typically on women over the age of 30. Currently, there is no HPV test available for men. The surest way for a male to know is if they have been informed by a HPV positive partner or display symptoms of genital warts.
If warts are present, they can be diagnosed immediately through a visual inspection. HPV results associated with a Pap test will likely be available with the Pap results, usually within a week.