Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. It sounds scary, but most people who get it never even know they have it. Here is what you need to know about HPV, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself.
What is HPV?
HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses. Some types cause warts on the hands, feet, or genitals. Other types can lead to certain cancers over time. The two most concerning types, HPV 16 and HPV 18, are responsible for most HPV-related cancers
(around 70%).
The good news is that most HPV infections go away on their own within one to two years, without causing any health problems at all.
How Does HPV Spread?
HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. You do not need to have many sexual partners to get HPV. In fact, many people get it from their very first partner.
Condoms can lower the risk of spreading HPV, but they do not fully prevent it, since the virus can live on skin that is not covered by a condom.
Who Can Get HPV?
Almost anyone who is sexually active can get HPV at some point in their life. It affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Because most infections have no symptoms, many people carry and pass on the virus without realising it.
What Problems Can HPV Cause?
Most of the time, HPV causes no problems at all. However, when the virus does not clear up on its own, it can cause:
- Genital warts from low-risk types of HPV
- Cancers of the cervix, throat, anus, penis, vagina, or vulva from high-risk types
Cervical cancer is one of the most well-known HPV-related cancers. This is why regular cervical screenings (Pap smears) are so important for people with a cervix.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
The best protection against HPV is the HPV vaccine. It is safe, effective, and widely recommended. The vaccine works best when given before a person becomes sexually active, which is why it is routinely offered to preteens around age 11 or 12. However, adults up to age 45 can still benefit from the vaccine.
Other ways to reduce your risk include using condoms consistently and going for regular health screenings.
What Should You Do If You Think You Have HPV?
There is a new HPV swab which unfortunately is not available for most people. It is becoming more mainstream though, and it will replace the PAP smear in the near future in most countries. For people with a cervix, a cervical screening can detect cell changes caused by HPV. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor. They can help you understand your options and next steps.
The Bottom Line
HPV is incredibly common, but it is also very manageable. Getting vaccinated, attending regular screenings, and having open conversations with your doctor are the three most powerful things you can do to protect your health.
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