HPV Resource Center - All Articles

HPV - All Articles

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that passes between people through sexual contact. While you might experience no symptoms whatsoever, some types of HPV can cause visible genital warts, and others may lead to cancers of the cervix, anus, penis, vulva, and vagina over time. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications, although the body often clears HPV in one to two years.

 Other prevention methods like safe sexual practices and getting a vaccine can reduce your HPV risk.

Common Questions & Answers

How is HPV transmitted?

HPV transmits through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, oral, or anal sex and can transmit even when symptoms aren't obvious. Bodily fluids aren't necessary for HPV transmission, and genital-to-genital contact is the most common way HPV passes between people.

More than 100 types of HPV exist, and around 30 affect the genitals. HPV 6 and HPV 11 most commonly lead to genital warts, while other types, including HPV 16 and HPV 18, have the closest links to different cancers.

Some high-risk types have links to cell changes that can cause cancers of the cervix, anus, and throat. Screening tests can check cervix cells for high-risk HPV, and Pap smears can identify harmful cell changes.

No HPV cure is available, but the body often clears the virus without treatment. If warts develop, they are treatable with various creams, ointments, and surgeries, but they may frequently reappear because the different treatments don't remove the underlying virus.

An HPV vaccine called Gardasil 9 can protect people against the types of HPV that lead to genital warts and cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends HPV vaccination starting at 11 or 12 years of age.

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Resources
  1. HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Cleveland Clinic. October 21, 2024.
  2. HPV Infection. Mayo Clinic. October 12, 2021.

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