Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Genital Warts

What is HPV and how is it spread?

There are over 100 different types of the HPV virus that affect different parts of the body. About 30 of those different types of HPV can be spread through sexual contact. HPV is the most common STI in the United States; it is estimated that 50-75% of sexually active adults have been exposed to at least one of the types of HPV. A female has a 40% chance of being exposed to HPV with every new sexual partner. Most people do not develop any symptoms.

There are low- and high-risk types of HPV. Low-risk types can cause genital warts in males or females. Genital warts can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, even when there are no visible warts, because the virus can be present without obvious symptoms. High risk types of HPV can cause changes in the cells of the cervix, which may lead to abnormal pap tests (click here to learn more about the importance of getting a yearly annual exam and pap test) and could result in cervical cancer.

How can I prevent it?

• Practice safe sex. Always use a barrier method, like condoms and dental dams. It is important to use these methods during vaginal, oral and anal sex to be protected.
• Avoid sexual activity when genital warts are present.

How can I get tested?
Since most women do not develop genital warts, an abnormal result on your Pap test is often the way for a provider to detect HPV. If you have an abnormal pap result, your provider will work with you for further testing and analysis. Having an abnormal pap does not necessarily mean that you have HPV, but it is a good way to test for it.

What are the symptoms?
Genital HPV infections usually have no symptoms, so most people infected with it do not know that they have it.

If you are infected with the type of HPV that causes genital warts, they may develop inside your vagina, on the vaginal lips, cervix or around the anus. They can also develop in your mouth or throat if you have oral sex with an infected person. The warts may look like one or many raised or flat bumps or growths and can be small or large in size.

Our understanding of the HPV vaccine (Gardasil©)

• HPV vaccine can prevent some cervical cancers, especially if given prior to becoming sexually active. It is still effective if given after starting sexual activity.
  
  
• Women MUST continue to have yearly pelvic examinations and regular Pap tests, since 30% of cervical cancers are not covered by the HPV vaccine.
  
  
• The side effects of HPV vaccine are similar to those of other vaccines, including measles/mumps/rubella and tetanus. The most common side effects of any vaccine are pain at the injection site, or feeling faint, dizzy or nauseous after getting the shot.
  
  
• Recommended age for vaccination is between 11 and 12 years; however, women aged 9 to 26 years can benefit.
  
  
• Mabel Wadsworth Center does not offer vaccinations; please consult your primary care provider if you wish to obtain this vaccination for yourself or your child.