HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Updated:HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. It's actually a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which can cause genital warts, while others can lead to various types of cancer, most notably cervical cancer. HPV is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Most sexually active people will contract at least one type of HPV in their lifetime, often without realizing it. In many cases, the body's immune system clears the virus naturally within two years. However, persistent infections with high-risk HPV types can lead to cellular changes that may progress to cancer if left untreated.
Additional Information
HPV vaccines are available and highly effective at preventing infection from the most common high-risk HPV types. Regular cervical cancer screenings (Pap smears and HPV tests) are crucial for early detection and prevention of HPV-related cancers. While condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they don't provide complete protection as the virus can infect areas not covered by condoms.
Examples
A person notices small, flesh-colored bumps in their genital area, which are diagnosed as genital warts caused by a low-risk HPV type.
During a routine Pap smear, a woman's results show abnormal cells, prompting further testing which reveals a high-risk HPV infection requiring close monitoring.