The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. In fact, it's so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives. There are over 100 different kinds of HPV, but only some of them can cause serious health problems like genital warts or cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva or anus.
For younger people, one of the most effective ways to prevent HPV is to get the vaccine that is very effective in protecting against HPV. It’s actually best to get vaccinated early on because that is the best time for the body to develop a full immune response to HPV – before they begin sexual activity with another person. The bottom line is that HPV is very common, and the HPV vaccine is a simple way to protect your child from it.
Most HPV infections in young men and women are transient, lasting no more than one or two years. Usually, the body clears the infection on its own. It is estimated that the infection will persist in only about 1% of women. It is those infections that persist which may lead to cancer.
Most men who get HPV (of any type) never develop any symptoms or health problems. But some types of HPV can cause genital warts. Other types can cause cancers of the penis, anus, or oropharynx (back of the throat, including base of the tongue and tonsils.)
One of the most common questions asked is, Can I still have sex with the HPV...quite simply yes you can.
However, there is still a lot we do not know about HPV. Condoms do offer some protection against HPV transmission, as well as other sexually transmitted infections. But HPV can be spread through genital contact and that contact can occur outside of the area covered by a condom.
In the image above is Autist Jordan having her HPV at school some years ago with proud Mum looking on, and below is Jordan now and she continues to spread awareness whenever she can.
