A method for detecting and/or quantitating specific DNA and/or RNA transcripts of human papillomavirus (HPV) is described. Nucleic acid probes specific for DNA or transcripts are used to determine the amount of the DNA or transcripts, and to ascertain the degree of amplification of certain high-oncogenic HPV genes. The method provides an accurate and reliable method for prognosticating serious cervical neoplasias and cancers.