Studies suggest that at least 3 out of 4 people will get an HPV infection during their lifetime.  Sexually transmitted HPV can spread through vaginal, oral or anal sex.

More than 30 types infect the genitals and like other STDs, there are often no signs or symptoms.  A few types cause genital warts called condyloma acuminata.  These growths appear on the outside or inside of the vagina or on the penis and can spread to nearby skin.  Genital warts can grow around the anus, on the vulva or on the cervix.  Warts can be treated and usually not linked to cancer.

Some types of HPV are linked to cancer in women and men.  Certain types are known to be a major cause of cervical cancer, cancer of the anus, vulva, vagina and penis.  Cancer develops over a long period of time causing the cells to become abnormal.  A pap test is best way to detect cell changes that may be an early sign of precancer of the cervix.  Cancer of the cervix can be prevented with early detection and treatment.

Routine pap tests help diagnose an HPV infection.  If you have an abnormal pap smear, your doctor may suggest an HPV test.  Getting both tests at the same time makes it more likely that any abnormal cell changes will be found. 

Risks Factors for HPV

• Previously treated for cancer or precancer
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
• Weakened immune system (for instance, because you have had a kidney transplant)
• Exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth
• Multiple sex partners

If you have not become sexually active or if you have a child that is not sexually active, get the Gardisil vaccine.  Limit your sexual partners and use condoms to reduce your risk of infection whenever you have vaginal, anal or oral sex.  Condoms also help protect against other STDs.