What is HPV? (Human Papillomavirus)
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in people. In 2018, around 43 million people were infected with this virus. Some of these are caused by different types of HPV, and these can cause various health problems. However, vaccines can prevent these types of infections.
HPV can be spread through oral, anal, or vaginal sex with an infected person. It can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected person’s skin. Even though an individual with the virus does not have any symptoms, they can still pass the infection to someone else.
Even if you have only had one sexual intercourse with someone infected with HPV, you can still get it. Its symptoms can appear years after you have had sex with the infected individual. This makes it hard to tell how you contracted it.
HPV can cause various types of cancer, such as those of the anus, vagina, penis, and vulva. It can also cause cancer in the throat, also known as oropharyngeal cancer.
The development of cancer usually takes years following an individual’s exposure to HPV. Different types of HPV can cause different types of cancer.
HPV can also cause genital warts. The most common type of genital warts is small bumps that appear in the area between the vagina and the penis. They can be flat, round, or raised. A healthcare provider can diagnose them by examining the area.
How Do I Know If I’m At Risk Of Contracting HPV?
Having a new sexual partner at any age can increase the risk of getting an HPV infection. Certain types of individuals who are already in monogamous relationships are unlikely to contract an infection.
Individuals who are infected with HPV during their pregnancy are at risk of getting genital warts or experiencing abnormal cell changes. Having regular cervical cancer screening can help detect these conditions.
Although there are currently no tests that can determine an individual’s HPV status, regular screenings are important. To learn more about HPV or to schedule a confidential appointment, click here.
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Genital warts: small, flesh-colored or gray growths on or around the genitals or anus, that can be raised or flat and can be single or multiple. Cervical changes: in women, HPV can cause changes in the cells of the cervix, which can be detected by a Pap smear, these changes can progress to cervical cancer if left untreated. Anal or oropharyngeal cancer: HPV can cause cancer in the anus or the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils, these cancers may not have symptoms in the early stages. Other symptoms: HPV can cause other symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain in the genital area. In rare cases, HPV can cause warts in the throat, which can make it difficult to swallow.