Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

What Is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 100 related viruses that affect the skin and moist areas of the body, such as the mouth, throat, genitals and anus. HPV is extremely common, so common that nearly all sexually active people will get it at some point, even if they have few partners.

HPV spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, most often during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Many people with HPV don’t have symptoms, so they can pass the virus without knowing they have it.

While most HPV infections are harmless and go away on their own, certain strains can cause:

• Genital warts
• Cervical cancer
• Other cancers such as throat, anal, vaginal and penile cancer

How Do You Get HPV?

HPV spreads through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. You can get HPV from:

• Vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has the virus
• Skin-to-skin contact in the genital area
• Contact with surfaces or objects used by someone with HPV (though this is less common)
• From mother to baby during childbirth (rare)
  
  

Because most people don’t know they’re infected, it’s easy to spread the virus without realizing it. That’s why preventive care is so important.

Most people with HPV never experience symptoms. However, depending on the type of HPV, some may develop:

Low-risk types:

• Genital warts – small bumps on or around the genitals or anus, sometimes resembling cauliflower
• Warts in the mouth or throat (rare)
  
  

High-risk types:

• Typically have no symptoms until more serious issues develop
• Can cause cell changes in the cervix or other areas, which may lead to cancer over time
  
  

Many people find out they have HPV only after an abnormal Pap smear or after warts or cancer appear.

How Is HPV Diagnosed?

There is no routine test for HPV in men or in the mouth or throat. For women, HPV is usually diagnosed through cervical cancer screenings. Your provider may:

• Perform a Pap test to detect abnormal cervical cells
• Order an HPV test (often done at the same time as a Pap smear) to identify high-risk strains
• Visually inspect for genital warts or unusual lesions
• Conduct a biopsy if a suspicious growth is found
  
  

Routine screening is essential, especially for people with a cervix aged 21 to 65, to catch issues early.

Managing HPV and Its Symptoms

There is no cure for the virus itself, but many infections clear naturally within one to two years. Treatment focuses on managing complications. Regular follow-up care is important to monitor and treat any changes caused by HPV.

How to Prevent HPV

The best way to protect yourself is through vaccination and routine screening.

HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9):

• Protects against the most harmful strains of HPV
• Recommended for:
  
  • Children ages 9–12 (best before any exposure to HPV)
  • Teens and young adults up to age 26
  • Adults up to age 45, depending on risk (talk to your provider)
    ​

Other Prevention Tips:

• Use condoms or dental dams during sex (though not 100% effective)
• Limit number of sexual partners
• Avoid sexual activity with people who have visible warts or symptoms
• Regular Pap and HPV tests as recommended
  
  

The HPV vaccine is safe, effective and a powerful tool in preventing several types of cancer.

If you have questions about HPV, unusual symptoms or want to know if the HPV vaccine is right for you, talk with your health care provider. Early action through vaccination, testing and treatment can prevent complications and protect your long-term health.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9am-9pm, Mon-Sun.

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368