Life with HPV: It's Possible

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 that women undergo a Pap smear exam every two years after the age of 21 and every three years after the age of 30. A person living with HPV should try their best to keep up with routine testing in order to ensure that any abnormal growth or cancers can be discovered early and corrected before they become life threatening. Currently there are no recommended testing guidelines for males living with HPV (Orenstein, 2011). However, if you are worried about your risk of cancer, it is important for you to talk with your physician about  any possible screenings available for you.

• Know Your Symptoms.  Living with HPV can be scary for a lot of people. It is important for you to know the symptoms associated with HPV, specifically symptoms that you may exhibit. The most common symptoms associated with HPV include genital warts, common warts, and flat warts (see What is HPV for more information). It is important to pay attention to your symptoms as they arise or “flare” up, so that you know when you are having a breakout. Most warts will go away on their own, however, some can grow and spread to other areas of the body. Therefore, it is important to seek necessary medical treatment if warts remain over a long period of time, do not try to remove them yourself!

• Encourage your partner to get vaccinated. If you know you are living with HPV, it is important for you to encourage your partner to get vaccinated. It may be difficult for you to talk to them about your condition, however, it will help to protect your partner from becoming infected. (See Preventing HPV for more information on vaccines).

• Use Condoms. HPV is spread by skin-to-skin contact, so it is important for you to use condoms during all types of sexual activity (anal, vaginal, and oral). Use of condoms will not fully eliminate your risk of infecting others, however it will help to reduce the risk (Orenstein, 2011). Using condoms will also protect you and your partner from other sexually transmitted infections.

• Good Hygiene.  It is important for you to practice good hygiene. Make sure to keep all areas infected with warts clean. Be sure to wash your hands with hot soapy water after touching any warts and thoroughly clean your genital areas after having sex. It is also important for you to use a q-tip when apply topical creams to warts, and remember to thoroughly wash your hands  after (Orenstein, 2011).

Below is an inspiring video of a woman named Tricia, who was diagnosed with HPV. I hope that her story will inspire you and uplift you on your personal journey with HPV.

References

[HPV stories]. (2014, June 09). Retrieved April 04, 2017, from  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2W2EZNtSLY

Orenstein, Beth. Living well with HPV. (2011, January 14). Retrieved April 03, 2017, from http://www.everydayhealth.com/sexual-health/living-well-with-hpv.aspx