What is HPV?

This information was provided by the American Social Health Association. http://www.iwannaknow.org/HPV.html. 9/1/10

What is HPV?
HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is the name of a group of viruses that has more than 100 different strains. HPV is sometimes called the wart virus because some types of HPV cause warts on the hands, feet or genitals. Some types can turn into cancer over many, many years. ASHA recommends getting the HPV vaccine, pap and HPV testing when appropriate.

How do I get HPV?
HPV and genital warts are spread when you have sex with someone who already has the virus. You can get HPV as long as you are having sex. You may not know if you have HPV.

Why haven't I heard of HPV?
HPV is very common. HPV is the most common STI in the United States, but

  • Many people don't know they have it.
  • Many people give it to their partners without meaning to.

Some people will know they have HPV when:

  • They see warts or bumps in their genitals or their sex partner's genitals.
  • Their doctor or nurse sees warts that are inside the vagina or in the anus found during an exam of their body.
  • They find something wrong in their Pap test. When something is wrong in the Pap test it could mean that they have HPV.

Is there a cure for HPV?
No. HPV is a virus and there is no direct treatment for the virus. Most people never have a problem with HPV because their body's immune system keeps the virus from ever becoming a problem. HPV can be treated and controlled if you do show the signs of having the virus.

You should go to the doctor or clinic if:

  • You notice any weird growths, bumps or skin changes on or near the penis, vagina, vulva, anus, scrotum or groin.
  • If you see a bump that wasn't there before or your skin just doesn't look the way it usually does.
  • Your sex partner(s) tells you that he or she has HPV.
  • What are genital warts?

When it comes to genital HPV, only 2 of the 30+ types actually cause genital warts. The genital warts (that you can see) are small, hard reddish bumps in the genital area. They are harmless and often go away on their own in a few months. They may be:

  • Flat (smooth on the skin)
  • Raised (like a bump or skin growth)
  • Single (only one wart)
  • Multiple (more than one in the same area or many areas)
  • Small or large

Genital warts can show up:

  • Penis
  • Scrotum
  • Vulva (entire outer femal genital area)
  • In or around the vagina
  • In or around the anus (butt hole)
  • Groin (where the genital area meets the inner thigh)

Can genital warts be treated?
If genital warts are itching, burning or bleeding, or you just want to do whatever you can to get rid of them go see your healthcare provider since they have several treatment options.

Some things to think about before getting any treatment for genital warts:

  • If you are pregnant or think you might be, tell your doctor or nurse so a treatment can be chosen that won't hurt you or the baby.
  • Ask your doctor or nurse to tell you about the treatment, including how much it costs and the good things about it.
  • Be sure you know what to do after you have the treatment done, like what to do about any itching, burning or pain, and when to come back to the office or clinic.
  • Be patient, most people have to be treated more than once or your doctor or nurse may have to try more than one treatment.
  • Some doctors or nurses may tell you not to have sex while having treatment. This is to protect the treated areas of skin and help it heal.
  •  It's OK to ask the doctor or nurse questions. They are there to help you and explain what is happening if you have any questions.

When should I get a Pap test?
According to the American Cancer Society, a girl should get her first Pap test by age 21, or within three years of having sex - which ever happens first.

Should I be afraid of getting cancer?
HPV is a very common virus, and most girls with HPV do not get cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is slow-growing and usually takes years to come along. This is why getting a Pap test each year is important.

I heard about a vaccine, what is it?
One HPV vaccine, Gardasil®, has been licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is available for girls and women between 9-26 years old. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination for girls 11-12 years of age and women ages 13-26 years who have not previously received it.

Here are some facts:

  • Gardasil® works to prevent the most common causes of cancer and genital warts between 95-100% of the time.
  • There are three shots. Once you get the first shot, you need a second shot two months later. You need to get a third shot six months after you get the first shot.
  • It will not cure or treat HPV if you already have HPV, but it may help you to not get any other type.
  •  It is best to get the shot before you start having sex.

Where can I learn more about HPV?
To learn more about HPV and other STIs call:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
800-232-4636
Hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Information is available in Spanish as well

For Information for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing call
1-888-232-6348