You have probably heard about recent HPV vaccines for teenage girls. You may have even been diagnosed with this virus or most likely have known or will someone who has. Most sexually active people will contract this at some point during the course of their lives. Most will never even know it because the virus usually doesn't cause any symptoms. Often, the human body can clear the infection on it's own in about 2 years.
The HPV types that cause genital warts are low risk for cervical cancer. Some are categorized as high risk Over the past few decades, experts found a link between human papilloma virus and cervical or genital cancer. There are more than 100 different kinds, 30 of which can cause genital warts, the other 70 or so can cause infections on the warts and hands. Cervical cancer is rare in the U.S.
The chances of getting HPV increases when you have had many sexual partners, if you're between the ages of 20-24, or women who are sexually active with men who have other partners at the same time. The virus can be transmitted to people through genital contact so a condom will not protect against it. To avoid it, avoid contact with another human being. To reduce your chances of getting it, try to stay in a monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. In 2006, a vaccine was approved for use in girls and women aged 9-26 and may eventually be approved for boys as well. Another one was approved by the FDA in 2007 so hopefully widespread vaccination in the not so distant future will help prevent the spread of this virus.
Lyla Feldman writes about health and fitness. Some of her favorite passions include writing about energy drinks and natural sleep aids.
