The most prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the US is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Some of the health consequences that HPV causes can be avoided using HPV vaccinations. A family of similar viruses is known as the human papillomavirus (HPV). In various places of your body, they might produce warts. There are almost 200 different varieties. Physical sexual contact with a person who has the virus causes the infection to be transmitted to about 40 of them. Additionally, they can spread through additional close, skin-to-skin contact. Some of these can result in cancer.
According to NIH, There are two categories of sexually transmitted HPV. Low-risk HPV can cause warts on or around your genitals, anus, mouth, or throat. High-risk HPV can cause various cancers:
- Cervical cancer
- Anal cancer
- Some types of oral and throat cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Penile cancer
By engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex with a carrier of the virus, you can contract HPV. The two types of intercourse that it is distributed during most frequently. Additionally, during intercourse, it transmits through close skin-to-skin contact. Even if they show no signs or symptoms, an HPV-positive individual can still transmit the infection to another person. Even if you have only had intercourse with one person, if you really are sexually active, you can contract HPV. Additionally, you may get indications years after having intercourse with a person who is infected. Knowing when you originally received it is difficult as a result. The risk of acquiring or spreading HPV is significantly decreased, but not entirely eliminated, by the proper use of latex condoms. Using polyurethane condoms is an option if you or your partner are allergic to latex. Avoiding anal, vaginal, and oral sex is the most effective approach to stay healthy.
There are various things you may do to lessen your risk of contracting HPV. It is most recommended to obtain a vaccine. Several kinds of HPV, including ones that might cause cancer, are preventable with vaccines. When people get their shots before being exposed to the virus, they are most protected. Therefore, it is ideal for individuals to get them when they start acting sexually. The HPV vaccine is both secure and reliable. When administered at the prescribed age ranges, it can offer protection against illnesses (including malignancies) brought on by HPV. CDC states that, Vaccinations are not advised for anyone beyond the age of 26. However, after discussing their risk for new HPV infections and the potential advantages of vaccination with their healthcare professional, some adults aged 27 to 45 who have not yet received the HPV vaccine may choose to do so. In this age group, HPV vaccination offers less protection. Although not necessarily all of the HPV kinds that the vaccine is designed to prevent, the majority of sexually active individuals have already been exposed to HPV. A new sex partner might increase your chance of contracting HPV at any age. It is unlikely for people who are already committed to a long-term, monogamous relationship to contract HPV again.
