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Understanding Human Papillomavirus (HPV): What is HPV and its Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) affecting both men and women. It is a virus that can cause various types of cancer such as cervical, anal, oral and penile cancer, as well as genital warts and other health problems.
What is HPV?
HPV is a group of more than 150 related viruses. Some HPV types can cause health problems including genital warts and cancers. About 40 types of HPV are mainly spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse.
What Causes HPV?
HPV is passed on through genital contact, most often during vaginal and anal sex. HPV may also be passed on during oral sex and genital-to-genital contact. It is also possible to contract HPV by coming into contact with infected skin or mucosal surfaces.
Symptoms of HPV
Most people who have HPV don’t have any symptoms and the infection often goes away without any treatment. However, some types of HPV can cause genital warts and some types can lead to cervical cancer and other less common types of cancer.
Treatment for HPV
There is no treatment for the virus itself; however, if warts are present, they can be treated by a doctor. Also, if cervical cancer is linked to a particular type of HPV, treatment may be necessary. The best way to prevent HPV is to get the HPV vaccine, which is available to both men and women.
HPV and Health
HPV can lead to multiple health issues, including genital warts, cervical cancer and other forms of cancer. To reduce your risk of HPV, it is important to practice safe sex and get the HPV vaccine. Being aware of the symptoms and getting regularly tested for STDs can also help you take care of your health.