No, not everyone gets HPV in their lifetime, but it is a very common sexually transmitted infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV.
Can HPV be transmitted without sexual contact?
HPV or human papillomavirus is usually transmitted through sexual contact. However, it is possible for a baby to contract HPV during childbirth if the mother has an active infection. Additionally, sharing personal items such as towels or undergarments with infected persons may increase the risk of transmission although this route of transmission is less common.
How can I reduce my risk of getting HPV?
The best way to reduce your risk of getting HPV is to get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine can help protect against the most common types of HPV that cause cancer and genital warts. Using condoms during sexual activity can also reduce the risk of contracting HPV, although it may not provide complete protection since skin-to-skin contact can transmit the virus. Additionally, limiting sexual partners or being in a mutually monogamous relationship with someone who has been previously tested for STIs can also lower your risk of getting HPV.
What are the complications of having HPV?
HPV or human papillomavirus can cause a variety of complications depending on the type of virus involved. Some strains of HPV are considered low-risk because they may cause genital warts, which are not usually life-threatening. However, some types of high-risk HPV can lead to cancer, including cervical cancer in women, and other cancers in both men and women. It is important for individuals with HPV infections to discuss their risks with a healthcare provider and follow recommended screening and treatment protocols to reduce their risk of developing complications.
How does HPV affect men and women differently?
HPV, or human papillomavirus, affects men and women differently in terms of the types of cancers that can be caused by the virus. Women are at risk for cervical cancer as well as other types of cancer such as vulvar, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Men are at risk for anal and oropharyngeal cancers as well as penile cancer. Both men and women can also develop genital warts from HPV infections. It’s important to note that most HPV infections clear up on their own without causing any health problems, but some strains of the virus can lead to serious health complications over time.