Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Fact sheet about human papillomavirus (HPV)

What is HPV?

Fact sheet about human papillomavirus (HPV)

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus that is usually spread through sex but can also be spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. HPV is a very common virus, and most people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. There are several types of HPV – some cause genital warts, and some can increase the risk of cancer.    There is currently no cure for HPV, but vaccines can prevent these health issues. 

How does HPV spread?

HPV can be spread through sexual contact. This includes vaginal, oral, or anal sex, as well as through close skin-to-skin contact that occurs during sexual activity. 

What are the signs and symptoms of HPV?

Most people infected with genital HPV do not experience symptoms. In most cases, the infection resolves on its own within two years. However, HPV can sometimes lead to health complications, such as genital warts or cancer, depending on the type of virus.

Common symptoms of an HPV infection can include:

• Warts 
• Unusual growths
• Lumps
• Sores

Warts can look like a small bump or group of bumps in the genital area. These bumps may be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower. They can also grow in size or number or stay the same over time. An HPV infection can sometimes lead to cancer in the cervix, vagina, and vulva, penis, anus, or back of the throat. 

What are my testing options?

Individuals should see their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of HPV. A health care provider can diagnose HPV by using HPV tests to screen for certain types of cancer, such as cervical cancer. Additionally, physical examinations can identify warts caused by HPV.

What are my treatment options?

There is no cure for HPV, but there are some treatments to help improve symptoms or other health issues caused by the virus.

• Genital warts can be treated by a health care provider or with prescription medication. 
• Treatment is available for cervical cancer.  All people with a cervix should get regular Pap tests. This helps detect any cancer early and can improve treatment outcomes.
• Early detection and treatment for other HPV-related cancers can improve outcomes.

What happens if HPV is left untreated?

• Genital warts can continue or go away and then come back.
• HPV can lead to several kinds of cancers, including cervical cancer as well as cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharyngeal cancer (which affects the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils). 
  • The development of cancer can take years or even decades after an HPV infection.

How can I prevent HPV? 

• You can protect yourself or your child from HPV and HPV cancers by getting vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and long-lasting. Vaccination is most effective when given before someone is exposed to the virus.
  • CDC recommends a two-dose series of HPV vaccine at ages 9–12 years. 
  • Teens who start the series later may need three doses of HPV vaccine.
  • Some adults aged 27 to 45 who are not already vaccinated may consider the HPV vaccine after discussing their risk and potential benefits with their doctor.
• Get regularly screened for cervical cancer. 
• If an individual or their partner has genital warts, they should avoid sexual activity until the warts have completely cleared. It is unclear how long a person can still transmit HPV after the warts have gone away.

Other steps you can take to stay safe and reduce the risk of getting HPV:

• Use condoms consistently and correctly during sex and consider other barrier methods like dental dams.
• Limit your number of sexual partners with unknown STI status.
• Get tested if you have symptoms of HPV.

Medications like doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy PEP) can help prevent bacterial STIs after exposure, while HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (HIV PrEP) can reduce your risk of acquiring HIV. Take charge of your sexual health and talk to your provider about what methods are right for you.

Where can I get more information?

• Your doctor, nurse, or sexual and reproductive health provider
• Your health center or family planning clinic
• Massachusetts Department of Public Health information on HPV vaccination
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• The Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Division of STD Prevention & HIV Surveillance, Partner Services Program at [phone]
• Doxy PEP information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
• HIV PrEP information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health