What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection comprising over 40 types, which are divided into two categories: low-risk HPV and high-risk HPV. It can infect the skin and mucous membranes in various parts of the body, including the pubic area, penis, scrotum, vulva, vagina, and anus, as well as the throat and oropharynx.

HPV is transmitted through oral, vaginal or anal sex, through skin-to-skin contact in the genital or anal area, and through the sharing of sex toys. Transmission is possible even in the absence of visible lesions.

The infection is very common, and the majority of sexually active people will be exposed to HPV during their lifetime.

The best way to prevent HPV is through vaccination. It protects against the types of HPV most commonly associated with genital warts and certain cancers.

Most HPV infections are cleared naturally by the immune system without causing any symptoms.

When symptoms do occur, they are usually associated with low-risk HPV types. These can cause genital warts, known as condylomas, which may appear anywhere from a few weeks to several months after infection. They are not harmful to health, but may reappear over time.

High-risk HPV types generally cause no visible symptoms.

In most cases, HPV is cleared naturally by the immune system without causing any major complications.

In some cases, a persistent infection with high-risk HPV can lead to precancerous lesions (dysplasia), which may develop into certain cancers.

HPV testing is not part of routine STBBI screening.

HPV is often detected when visible lesions appear or during a clinical examination. In people with a cervix, a screening test (Pap test or HPV test) can detect abnormalities associated with a persistent infection.

In certain clinical contexts, follow-up may be offered if risk factors or symptoms are present.

Use our clinic directory to find clinics that offer appointments for people with symptoms.

There is no treatment to eliminate HPV. The virus is usually cleared by the immune system over time.

Genital warts can be treated with various topical treatments, but this does not necessarily prevent them from reappearing.