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What Is HPV?

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According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections. So common in fact, that nearly all sexually active men and women contact the virus at some point in their lives. There are over 100 different forms of the HPV virus present today (2017). These can range from high risk strains that cause cancer, to low risk strains that may cause genital warts or show no sign of symptoms. Thankfully, most HPV infections can resolve on their own, however, it is important to get tested, as HPV can remain in the body and spread to other sexual partners. There is currently no treatment available for the HPV virus (CDC, 2017). How Does HPV Spread? Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV. The HPV virus can enter the body through cuts, abrasions, and small tears in the skin. The most common method of infection is skin-to-skin contact through sexual intercourse (CDC, 2017). HPV is commonly sprea
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HPV: Helpful Corner

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Below we will explore four common myths about HPV, and provide you with the appropriate facts. Myth #1 Only women can get HPV. Fact. Both women and men can contract HPV. Research shows that most sexually active men and women will contract HPV at some point in their lives. Myth #2 All types of HPV cause cancer. Fact. Not all strains of HPV cause cancer. There are low risk strains and high risk strains. The most common strains of HPV that cause cancer are type 16 and type 18 (CDC, 2017). Fortunately research indicates that most forms of HPV go away within two years and do not cause any problems. Myth #3 There is a cure for HPV. Fact. There is no cure for HPV. The only treatment options available exist for abnormal cell growth, precancerous lesions, and warts associated with HPV. No cure for the virus exits. Myth #4 HPV vaccines are not safe . Fact. Although there have been isolated cases of reverse side effects reported, research shows that the HPV vaccines
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Life with HPV: It's Possible

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HPV is one of the most common forms of sexually transmitted infections in the United States. It is important to remember that not all people living with HPV even know that they have the infection, as many people often show no signs or symptoms. Research shows that the body usually fights off the infection on an average of about two years (Orenstein, 2011). However, if you have been diagnosed with HPV, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others from further transmission of the virus. The body does not always fight off the infection and it can lead to more serious illnesses such as cancer. Although living with HPV may seem scary, it is important to remember that you can do it. Always protect yourself and others by decreasing the risk of infection. Below are a few simple steps that may better assists you in living with HPV. Get Regular Check-Up’s. If you have been diagnosed with HPV it is important that you go in for routine testing. It is recommended t
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Preventing HPV

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HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections today. Currently there are 20 million people living with HPV, and an estimated 6 million people will become infected by the end of the year (Fields, 2016) . However, there are several steps that you can take to decrease the likelihood of infection, they include the following: Abstinence. The only way to completely reduce the likelihood of infection is by abstaining from all sexual intercourse. This includes, anal, vaginal, and oral sex. HPV is mostly transmitted by skin-to-skin sexual contact, and abstaining from sex will dramatically reduce your risk of infection. Limiting Sexual Partners. It is important to limit the number of sexual partners that you have as well. Research shows that approximately and 8 month period between sexual partners can help to limit the transmission of HPV and allow the infection to leave the body if contracted (Fields, 2016). Using Condoms. HPV is spread by skin-to-skin contact, the use
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HPV & Cancer

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Animated Image of HPV Cancer Cells Although most forms of HPV self-correct, there are certain high-risk forms that may lead to cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute (NIH), the most common high-risk cancer developing forms of HPV include, HPV 16 and HPV 18 (2015). High-risk HPV cancers account for roughly 5% of all cancers worldwide. In the United States alone, 3% of all cancers among women, and 2% of all cancers among men can be attributed to high-risk HPV (NIH, 2014). Although these statistics seem low, anyone with high-risk strains of HPV are still at risk for developing cancer later on in life. There are several different types of cancers associated with HPV, these include: cervical, anal, oropharyngeal, vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancers. Cancer Statistics Cervical Cancer. Research shows that nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. HPV types 16 and 18 seem to be responsible for roughly 70% of all cases (NIH, 2015). Anal Cancer. Statisti
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