There are many different types of HPV, and some types can cause health problems, including genital warts and cancers. However, there are vaccines that can prevent these health problems from occurring.

You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It is most commonly spread during vaginal or anal sex. A person with HPV can pass the infection to someone even when they have no signs or symptoms.

In most cases, HPV goes away on its own within two years without causing health problems. But when HPV does not go away, it can lead to health issues like genital warts and cancer.

Genital warts usually appear as a small bump or group of bumps in the genital area. They can be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower

HPV can cause cervical and other cancers, including cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus.

Genital warts and cancers result from different types of HPV.

You can take several steps to reduce your chances of getting HPV.

Get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective. It can protect against diseases (including cancers) caused by HPV when given in the recommended age groups.

Get screened for cervical cancer. Routine screening for women aged 21 to 65 years old can prevent cervical cancer.

Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. However, some adults age 27 through 45 years who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their healthcare provider about their risk for new HPV infections and the possible benefits of vaccination. HPV vaccination in this age range provides less benefit. Most sexually active adults have already been exposed to HPV, although not necessarily all of the HPV types targeted by vaccination.

At any age, having a new sex partner is a risk factor for acquiring a new HPV infection. People who are already in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship are not likely to get a new HPV infection.

There is no test to determine a person’s “HPV status.”

There are HPV tests that can screen for cervical cancer. Healthcare providers only use these tests for screening women aged 30 years and older. HPV tests are not recommended for screening men, adolescents, or women under the age of 30 years.

There is no treatment for the virus itself. However, there are treatments for the health problems that HPV can cause:

Genital warts can be treated by your healthcare provider or with prescription medicine. If left untreated, genital warts may go away, stay the same, or grow in size or number.

Cervical precancer treatment is available. Women who undergo routine Pap tests and follow up as needed can detected problems before cancer develops.

Prevention is always better than treatment.

For more information please contact Grupo HPA Saude on (+351) 282 420 400.