What is HPV?

HPV or human papillomavirus is a virus that causes warts.  There are many kinds of HPV, some are sexually transmitted, some are not.

What about that study that said 60% of RU women have HPV?

As many as 1 in 5 American adults has a genital HPV infection.

Sometimes you know it - you can see the warts on the vulva or penis, and sometimes, the warts are inside the body (either the vagina or anus) or the immune system is strong enough to prevent warts from forming.  The virus, however, is still present.  And HPV infection has been linked to cervical cancer.  The real question is, how do I take care of my partner(s) and myself?

How is it spread?

HPV is passed by skin to skin contact. The transmission can occur from sores/ulcers or from infected skin that looks normal.  So using a condom or dental dam helps BUT may not cover all the affected areas.

What should I do to protect myself?

HPV can take months or years to become visible.  So, the best protection is prevention.  Take care of your health - use condoms and/or dental dams for sexual behaviors that include vaginal, anal or oral activities.  Remember though, that these products can reduce the risk of contracting HPV but are not a guarantee.  Choose sexual behaviors that don't put you at risk for HPV - mutual masturbation, fantasy - use your imagination (it is the biggest sexual organ!)

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