An Introduction to HPV (Human papillomavirus)

HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. HPV infections affect an estimated 43 million Americans, many of whom are in their late teens and early 20s.

What is HPV?

HPV is a common STI that spreads when you have sexual contact with someone who has the virus. More than 200 strains of HPV exist. Many HPV infections are considered low-risk, though 14 high-risk strains are known to cause cancer.

HPV infections usually resolve on their own within a few years. When HPV doesn’t go away, it can cause complications, including genital warts and cancer. The most effective ways to reduce your risk for this virus include practicing safer sex and getting the HPV vaccine.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of an HPV Infection?

HPV infections do not always cause symptoms, which is why screening is important. When they do appear, signs may include:

·       Genital warts

·       Warts on the hands and fingers

·       Plantar warts

·       Flat warts

·       Symptoms of related cancers

What are the Risk Factors for HPV?

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for this common STI.

HPV risk factors include:

·       Multiple sexual partners

·       Weakened immunity

·       Open wounds

·       Exposure to surfaces such as public gyms and showers where HPV may be present

How is HPV Spread?

HPV typically spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has this infection. In some instances, HPV transmission can occur through an open sore that comes into contact with a contaminated surface.

What Happens if You Get HPV?

If you get HPV, be open about it with your sexual partner and take steps, such as using condoms, to reduce its transmission. In many people, the virus clears on its own within a few years. However, it is possible to have the virus in your system for a long time and not know it, as it does not always produce symptoms.

If you are female, see your healthcare provider regularly for screenings.

What Types of Cancer Can HPV Cause?

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer HPV can cause. In fact, this virus is the primary cause of more than 99% of all cervical cancers.

Other HPV-related diseases and cancers can include:

·       Vaginal cancer

·       Vulvar cancer

·       Penile cancer

·       Throat cancer

·       Anal cancer

Your healthcare provider can talk to you in greater detail about HPV and cancer risks, especially if you have a family history of cancer or meet certain risk factors.

Are Males at Risk for HPV?

Males and females are at equal risk for getting HPV. However, HPV screening is available only for females. In rare instances, males who meet anal cancer risk factors may receive an anal Pap test from their healthcare providers to check for HPV.

Can HPV Be Cured?

Currently, no cure exists for HPV. Females who test positive for HPV or who have abnormal Pap smear results may receive treatment to destroy abnormal cells. Common treatments for cervical cell abnormalities include cryotherapy, laser therapy, and a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).

How Can You Reduce Your Risk for HPV-Related Cancers?

HPV does not cause cancer in the majority of people who are living with this virus. However, you can take steps to reduce your risk for HPV-related cancers, even if you meet non-modifiable risk factors.

·       Get vaccinated against HPV. HPV immunization can protect against all HPV strains, including those that cause cancer.

·       Get the HPV test. HPV screening for females can detect the presence of HPV.

·       Get a Pap test. A Pap test is a form of cervical cancer prevention that can detect the presence of abnormal cells on the cervix.

·       Don’t smoke. Smoking can reduce your immunity and make clearing HPV from your system more difficult.

·       Use condoms. Condoms may prevent HPV transmission during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

What HPV Testing Options are Available?

HPV testing may be uncomfortable, both physically and emotionally. However, screening is essential to staying healthy and reducing your risk for cancer. It can also give you peace of mind if you’re unsure whether you’ve been exposed to this virus and help you determine your next steps if you test positive.

HPV Test

Traditionally, an HPV test is performed the same way as a Pap smear. During an HPV test, your provider will open your vagina using a speculum and collect a small sample of cells from your cervix. Your sample will then be sent to the lab, where it will be evaluated and tested for HPV.

Our innovative PHASE Lab HPV Urine Test, coming soon, offers high-quality HPV testing with the convenience of a non-invasive urine sample to help make HPV testing a more comfortable experience for the patient. Visit our website to learn more and stay updated!