Immunizations

HPV

HPV is a common virus that can cause warts or, less often, certain cancers. Most infections clear on their own, but vaccination and regular screening help protect your health.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common group of viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes. There are many types. Low-risk types can cause conditions like genital warts. High-risk types can cause long-lasting infections that may lead to cell changes and cancer, most often cervical cancer, but also anal, oropharyngeal, penile, vulvar and vaginal cancers.

Symptoms and How HPV Appears
Most people with HPV have no symptoms, and many infections clear on their own. When symptoms do occur, they may include visible warts in the genital area, anus, mouth or throat, usually caused by low-risk types. High-risk HPV typically causes no symptoms and is found through routine screening when cell changes are detected.

How HPV Spreads
HPV spreads mainly through direct skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal or oral contact. It can be passed even when a person has no symptoms. Less commonly, HPV may be passed from mother to baby at birth, but sexual contact is the most common route.

Risk Factors

  • Having multiple sexual partners or a partner with multiple past partners
  • Becoming sexually active at a younger age
  • A weakened immune system, such as from HIV or certain medications
  • Smoking

Diagnosis and Screening
There is no routine test for all HPV types in people without symptoms. For cervical cancer screening, Pap tests and HPV tests can find abnormal cells or high-risk types. Abnormal results may lead to further evaluation with colposcopy and, if needed, a biopsy. Genital warts are usually diagnosed during a physical exam, and identifying the exact HPV type is rarely needed for treatment.

Prevention
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent HPV. The vaccine protects against the most common high-risk types and the low-risk types that cause most genital warts. It is typically given around age 11 or 12, though older teens and some adults may also benefit. Condoms and dental dams reduce risk but do not eliminate it, since not all skin is covered.

Treatment and Management
There is no cure that removes HPV from the body, but most infections resolve naturally. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This may include removing genital warts or treating abnormal cervical cells before they become cancer. The vaccine does not treat an existing infection but can protect against other types in the future.

When to See a Practitioner
Talk with your healthcare practitioner if you notice new growths, lumps or lesions in the genital area, abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain, or if screening results are abnormal. If you have questions about HPV vaccination or screening, the team at TidalHealth is here to help.

Outlook
Most people clear HPV without long-term health problems. When high-risk HPV persists, regular screening and timely treatment greatly reduce the risk of cancer. Vaccination has significantly lowered rates of HPV infection and related conditions. If you have concerns about HPV or its impact on your health or relationships, TidalHealth practitioners can offer guidance and support.

What is HPV?
HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a family of viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes. Some types cause warts, while others can lead to cell changes that may become cancer.

How common is HPV?
HPV is extremely common. Most sexually active people will be exposed to it at some point.

How is HPV spread?
HPV spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, most often during vaginal, anal or oral sex. It can be passed even when there are no visible signs.

Can HPV be cured?
There is no medication that completely removes HPV. Most infections clear on their own. Treatment focuses on symptoms, such as warts, or on removing abnormal cells when needed.

Does HPV always cause cancer?
No. Most HPV infections do not lead to cancer. Only certain high-risk types can cause cancer if they persist for many years. Regular screening helps detect changes early.

Is there a vaccine for HPV? Who should get it?
Yes. A safe and effective vaccine protects against the most common HPV types. It is routinely recommended for preteens around ages 11 or 12. Older teens and some adults may also be eligible. Your TidalHealth provider can help determine what is right for you or your child.

Do condoms prevent HPV?
Condoms lower the risk of HPV but do not fully prevent it, as they may not cover all affected skin.

What happens if an HPV test or Pap smear is abnormal?
An abnormal result may lead to additional testing, such as repeat screening, HPV typing or colposcopy with a small biopsy. Your healthcare practitioner will explain the findings and next steps.

Can I get HPV from a toilet seat or shared objects?
HPV is not usually spread through toilet seats or shared objects. It requires direct skin-to-skin contact.

If I have HPV, can I still have children?
Yes. Most people with HPV have healthy pregnancies and children. Some treatments for abnormal cells may slightly affect future pregnancies, and your provider can discuss options and risks with you.

Should I tell my partner if I have HPV?
Open communication helps partners make informed choices. Because HPV is common and often clears on its own, your provider can help guide this conversation if needed.

Where can I get more information or support?
Healthcare practitioners can answer questions about HPV vaccination, screening and treatment and to share trusted, up-to-date resources. Please reach out if you need support.