Human Papilloma Virus Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Human Papilloma Virus?

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a group of viruses that are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer and other types of cancers, as well as genital warts. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and affects both male and female. HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. It can also be spread through oral sex, sharing sex toys, or genital contact with an infected person even when there are no visible signs or symptoms. The virus can be passed on even when using condoms, although condom use reduces the risk significantly. Most people who get HPV do not have any symptoms and may never know they have it until they are tested for it or develop cancer later in life. It is estimated that 80% of individuals will get HPV at some point in their lives but most will clear it without problems. Those infected with HPV may experience genital warts which usually appear weeks or months after exposure to the virus and can vary in size from very small to large cauliflower-like growths around the genitals, anus or throat area. The warts usually go away on their own but sometimes treatment may be necessary to remove them if they grow too large or cause discomfort. It’s important to protect yourself from getting infected with HPV by practicing safe sex such as using condoms every time you have sex, avoiding multiple partners, and getting vaccinated if you are eligible for it (usually up to age 26). Vaccines such as Gardasil 9 protect against nine types of HPV which can cause cancer including cervical cancer so everyone should think about talking to their doctor about getting vaccinated if they haven’t already done so.