The ABCs of HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
What is HPV?
It’s not something you hear about often, which is strange considering that HPV is actually the most common sexually-transmitted disease (STD).
It affects both men and women, and in most cases is harmless and has no symptoms. In fact, most sexually-active people will get the virus at some stage, but usually their body clears the infection without them even knowing about it.
However, sometimes the more high-risk strains of HPV can lead to diseases in the genitalia, such as genital warts and certain cancers such as cervical, anal or penile cancer.
How do you get HPV?
HPV is contracted easily through skin-to-skin contact. There does not need to be an exchange of bodily fluid, and you do not have to have intercourse.
Usually, your body is able to clear the virus on its own within 36 months, without you even knowing about it.
What are the symptoms?
Typically, there are no apparent symptoms right away, even with high-risk HPV that can lead to certain cancers. Unfortunately, it’s only when health problems appear that people show signs of HPV infection.
That’s why it’s important for everyone to go for regular medical check-ups, and for women to go for regular pap smears to detect any changes in the cells of their cervix.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself or your partner, visit a Healthcare Professional: changes in the colour or thickness of skin on the penis or vulva, anal bleeding or pain, a lump in the neck, constant coughing or pain when swallowing.
How is HPV prevented?
If used correctly, condoms help to prevent the spread of HPV. There is still a chance though that you can contract the virus even when using a condom.
There are two HPV vaccines available in South Africa. These vaccines prevent two types of HPV (HPV16 and 18) that cause up to 70 % of all cervical cancers. One of the vaccines also protects against the two types of HPV (HPV6 and 11) that cause up to 90% of genital warts.
The best time for the vaccine is before becoming sexually active and exposed to HPV. It is recommended from 9 years to 16 years in females only. Speak to your doctor about getting your child vaccinated.
What about genital warts?
These are harmless growths on the skin, and can disappear without treatment. They aren’t dangerous and do not lead to cancer. You should, however, always consult your doctor. They can prescribe a special cream or help remove them by freezing, burning or laser treatments.
There is a chance that they will return, as the virus that caused them may still be present in your body.
HPV is nothing to be embarrassed about
Remember, there is nothing to be embarrassed about if you find out that you have HPV. It can be considered a normal part of being sexually active, and is harmless in most instances.
Just be sure to go for regular health check-ups and raise any concerns with your doctor.