HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that can cause warts and cancers: 

• Types: There are over 200 types of HPV, with about 40 being sexually transmitted. 

• Symptoms: Most people with HPV don't have any symptoms. However, HPV can cause warts on the genitals, anus, mouth, or throat. 

• Cancer: Some types of HPV can cause cancer, including cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and some types of oral and throat cancer. HPV 16 and HPV 18 are responsible for most HPV-related cancers. 

• Spread: HPV is spread through any sexual activity, protected or unprotected. The likelihood of having HPV increases with the number of sexual partners you have.

• Treatment: For 90% of women, HPV clears up on its own within two years. In some cases, HPV can cause the cells of the cervix to change over time, which could develop into cervical cancer if left untreated.

  
  

HPV can also cause complications during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can cause genital warts to grow, which can make vaginal delivery difficult. In rare cases, a woman with HPV can pass it on to her baby.