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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the U.S. HPV is a small, non-enveloped deoxyribonucleic acid virus that infects the skin or mucosal cells. HPV is spread by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the the virus. Anyone who is sexually active can get this virus. Many times there are no signs or symptoms, but the most common symptom is genital warts. HPV can also lead to cancers of the vagina, vulva, penis, anus, and even the back of the throat. The most common type of cancer caused by HPV is cervical cancer, but it can take up to 20 years or longer to develop after having the infection. HPV is unlikely to affect a pregnancy or the baby's health. Although it is possible to pass the virus to a baby, it is more likely to to overcome the virus on its own without any problems. If the body's immune system cannot fight off the HPV infection, it can turn normal cells into abnormal cells causing cancer which is a long term effect. The warts caused by HPV often go away on their own, but there is no cure for this infection. There are many medications that may help with warts and lesions. On the other hand, there is a HPV vaccine that can help protect you against certain types of HPV.