Ashley Graham by

What is HPV?

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:34:39 UTC

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is an infection that causes warts in various parts of the body, depending on the strain. It is the most common STI.

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:03 UTC

There is not one specific pathogen that causes HPV. In fact, more than 200 types have been identified. HPV consists of a small family of double-stranded DNA viruses that infect the epithelium.

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:10 UTC

Unlike some other STI's there is a vaccine for HPV. However, if you do have the virus and are pregnant, there is a very low chance that HPV will be transmitted to the baby during childbirth.

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:16 UTC

The HPV vaccine is recommended to children age 11-12 for the best results. The vaccine not only protects one from the virus but also many types of cancer that comes with the virus.

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:25 UTC

As you can see in this picture, there are many types of cancer caused by HPV. Studies show that HPV infections cause 5% of cancers worldwide.

Lifelong Effects

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:30 UTC

HPV is not treatable. However, it usually goes away on its own within 2 years. If it does not it can cause cancer and genital warts.

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:34 UTC

One of the effects

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:54 UTC

HPV can be given to or transmitted by both men and women.

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:35:58 UTC

aegraham — 2023-11-14 18:41:41 UTC

HPV does not have any distinct symptoms. You can not have any or you can have itching and irritation and warts anywhere on the body.