Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a group of viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes of the body. There are over 150 different types of HPV, and some can cause serious health problems, including cervical cancer. HPV is very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States.

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus that infects the skin and mucous membranes of the body. The most common types of HPV are spread through sexual contact and infect the genital area. Other types of HPV can infect the mouth and throat, or the skin of the hands and feet.

How do people get HPV?

HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual contact. This can include vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be spread through other forms of sexual contact, such as touching or rubbing the genitals.

HPV Symptoms in Women

• Genital warts: These are small, fleshy growths that can appear on or around the genitals or anus. They can be raised or flat, and may be single or multiple. They may be painful or itchy, but not all warts are visible.
• Abnormal cervical cells: These changes can be found during a routine Pap test. In most cases, these changes will not cause symptoms, but in some cases, women may experience abnormal bleeding or discharge.
• Cervical cancer: This is a rare complication of HPV infection. Symptoms may include abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, and weight loss.

HPV Symptoms in Men

• Genital warts: These are small, fleshy growths that can appear on or around the penis, scrotum, or anus. They can be raised or flat, and may be single or multiple. They may be painful or itchy, but not all warts are visible.
• Anal warts: These warts can appear around the anus and may cause itching, bleeding or discharge.
• Cancers: These are rare complications of HPV infections in men, but HPV can cause cancers of the penis, anus, and oropharynx (throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils).

How is HPV diagnosed?

HPV can be diagnosed through a Pap test or an HPV test. A Pap test looks for abnormal cells on the cervix, while an HPV test looks for the virus itself.

How is HPV treated?

There is no treatment for the virus itself, but there are ways to manage the symptoms of HPV.

• Genital warts can be removed through cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (burning), or surgical excision.
• Abnormal cervical cells can be treated with cryotherapy, laser therapy, or a cone biopsy.
• Cervical cancer is treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

How can HPV be prevented?

The best way to prevent HPV is through vaccination. HPV vaccines are safe and effective, and can protect against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical cancer.

Additionally, using condoms during sexual contact can also help reduce the risk of HPV infection.

Conclusion

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems, including cervical cancer. It can be diagnosed and treated, and the best way to prevent it is through vaccination. If you have any concerns about HPV or your risk of infection, talk to your healthcare provider.