Humanpapillomavirus(HPV)is a group of viruses commonly spread through sexual contact.
Many low-risk strains resolve on their own.
High-risk HPV strains can cause certain cancers.
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But having HPV does not necessarily mean you will get cancer.
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What Is the Difference Between an STD and STI?
An STI may progress into a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Many peopleuse these terms interchangeably.
But, some low-risk strains (types 6 and 11) can causegenital warts.
Symptoms rarely occur in the early stages of these cancers, but they can appear in later stages.
Signs of these cancers are listed below in the complications section.
How Is HPV Transmitted?
The most common mode of genitalHPV transmissionis vaginal or anal sex.
However, it can spread through skin-to-skin sexual contact andoral sex.
It does not require sexual intercourse or penetration.
This is true even if there is no contact with a wart.
Who Is at Risk for HPV?
HPV Vaccine
The number of HPV cases has been decreasing since the introduction of the HPV vaccine.
According to the CDC, full vaccination can prevent over 90% of cancers triggered by HPV.
Gardasil-9is the only HPV vaccine in the United States.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
The CDC recommends HPV vaccination for children aged 11 and 12 (before they are sexually active).
However, it can be given as young as 9 years old.
They also recommend a “catch-up” vaccination for those between 13 and 26.
Regardless of age, people with a compromised immune system should receive the vaccination.
Gardasil-9 Cost
Most of the time, insurance covers thecostof the HPV vaccine.
The CDC recommends two doses for those who get their first dose before turning 15.
Those who get the first dose after they turn 15 need three doses for full protection.
The CDC also recommends three doses for those between 9 and 14 years old with a compromised immune system.
The schedulefor the two- and three-dose series is as follows:
Can You Prevent HPV?
Surgery is the most common treatment.
You should not have sex if you have active lesions due to the risk of transmitting the HPV infection.
However, having an HPV diagnosis does not mean you should avoid sex altogether.
Barrier devices like condoms or dental dams can help reduce the risk of transmitting HPV.
HPV can be transmitted from other genital areas, even with condom use.
This may feel awkward, but its essential for your well-being.
Ifyou or your partner has HPV, remember it is very common.
Many people carry it for years without knowing it.
Educate yourself about the specific strain and risks.
Complications of HPV
Genital warts and certain cancers are complications of some strains of HPV.
The strains that cause genital warts (low-risk) differ from those that cause cancers (high-risk).
There are 14 high-risk HPV strains, but the two main high-risk types are 16 and 18.
If you have HPV, discuss the strain and risks with your healthcare provider.
If HPV causes genital warts, there are effective treatments but no cure.
While some genital cancers (including cervical) can be fatal, early detection and treatment provide better outcomes.
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