Human papillomavirus (patient information)
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Human papillomavirus |
Human papillomavirus On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: João André Alves Silva, M.D. [2]
Overview
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus related to the development of certain types of genital cancer, such as cervical cancer. Although many people disregard its existence, it is very common. It is a sexually transmitted virus, generally transmitted through genital contact, such as vaginal and anal sex, however, it may seldom be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. About half the people who have had sex, will be infected by HPV at some point in time. Although infection by this virus may be harmless in some cases, with some patients never developing any symptoms and going away on its own, it is a matter of public concern, since it may lead to the development of certain types of cancer.[1]
What are the symptoms of Human papillomavirus?
HPV may lead to a broad spectrum of diseases. If you are infected you may have no signs or symptoms of HPV infection or, you may have increased risk of developing cancer.
There are over 100 different kinds of HPV and not all of them cause health problems. Some kinds of HPV may cause problems such as genital warts, while other kinds of the virus can cause cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, or anus. Most of these problems are caused by types 6, 11, 16 or 18.[1]
What causes Human papillomavirus?
Who is at highest risk?
Any person who has ever had sexual contact with another person may be infected by HPV. It may infect both men and women. Among other reasons, the population should be aware of this virus, since people may be infected by it, never developing any symptoms and therefore not knowing that they are infected. The virus may remain in a person, without carrying out any manifestations, for years after that person have had sex.[1]
You are more likely to be infected by HPV, if you have:
Diagnosis
Today there is a test to search for the kinds of HPV that may lead to cervical cancer.
The FDA has approved the HPV test to be used for women over 30 years old. It may find HPV even before there are changes to the cervix. However, women who have had the HPV test, will still need to get the Pap test.[1]
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Human papillomavirus?
Prevention
The FDA has approved vaccines that prevent certain diseases, including cervical cancer, caused by some types of HPV. Ask your doctor about the vaccine and if you should get the HPV vaccine.[1]
In order to lower your chances of being infected by HPV you can:
- Choose not to have sex (abstinence).
- Limit the number of partners you have.
- Choose a partner who has had no or few sex partners. The fewer partners your partner has had, less likely he or she is to being infected with HPV.
To the best of our knowledge, it is not known how much condoms protect against HPV, since areas not covered by the condom can still be exposed to the virus.