Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the name of a group of over 100 viruses. 30 are transmitted sexually. In the U.S, it is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, making it a serious issue to be aware of. There are several questions surrounding the elusive nature of HPV, including who can get HPV, how common it is, the signs, the cures, and how you actually contract a HPV.
Who can get HPV? Is it common?
Anyone that has genital contact can get HPV. It is very contagious. Both men and women can get it. Both can pass it on without even knowing it. Areas of infection include the penis, the outside area and the lining of the vagina, and the anus. HPV is very common. It is said that around 20 million people are infected with HPV currently. About 50% of people that are active sexually obtain genital HPV infection sometime in their lifespan.
How can I get an HPV infection? What are some symptoms?
HPV is acquired by genital contact. Genital contact includes genital- genital, genital-anus, and sometime (but very rarely) oral. Most HPV infections show no signs, so it is easy to transfer to another partner. Most people are unaware they are even infected. There are usually no symptoms, and most people do not realize that they are infected. Some people do get genital warts or have pap tests that detect pre-cancerous changes. Genital warts are generally described as looking like Cauliflower- like clusters, or maybe a flesh colored mole. Genital warts are diagnosed by visual inspection. Some treatments include applying topical medication, or health care administered procedures.
Can HPV be dangerous?
Yes, in some cases it can be dangerous and risky. A diminutive number of HPV strains are linked to cervical cancer, but most people recover from HPV infections with no symptoms at all.
Is there a cure for?
No. No “cure” is available, but the mostly the infection goes away on its own.
What makes my chances great of getting HPV?
- Having sex at an earlier age.
- Having multiple sex partners.
- Having a sex partner that has many other partners.
How can I protect myself of getting HPV?
- Refraining from genital contact (abstinence)
- Long term, mutually monogamous relationship
- Reduce sexual partners
- Using latex condoms as protection
Is there a HPV vaccine? Who should get it?
The FDA approved Gardasil is the vaccine. It works by mimicking the disease. It has shown to be safe, with minor side effects such as fever or redness and irritation on the skin where the shot was administered. The vaccine is 95% effective. Females between the ages of 9-26 are approved to receive the vaccine. It is best to receive the shot before becoming sexually active.
Learn more about ways to boost your immune system naturally here.
Sources:
http://www.brown.edu/Student_Services/Health_Services/Health_Education/sexu al_health/sti/hpv.htm
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/healthscience/healthtopics/human_papillomavirus/li nks.htm http://www.cdc.gov/STD/HPV/STDFact-HPV.htm
http://www.fda.gov/WOMENS/getthefacts/hpv.html
