STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)/ Genital Warts
HPV is the most commonly reported viral STD. It is spread through sex or by touching naked genitals or anus. It can lead to warts on the genital skin, rectum and in the vagina or cervix and cause cervical & penile cancer. There usually are no symptoms. Most women find out they have the disease because of an abnormal Pap smear. Up to 50% of teenagers who have had more than one sex partner will have HPV. Approximately 80% of sexually active women will have been exposed to HPV by the age of 50. Unfortunately condoms will not protect you from HPV. There is no cure for HPV, but in women the body may fight off the infection and it make it away. There is no HPV test available for men.
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Human Papilloma virus(HPV) |
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How You Know You Have It |
Usually You Don’t (Asymptomatic); Warts; Pap Smear |
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How You Get It |
Sex: Vaginal, Penile, Anal, Oral; Mother to baby; Infected Skin |
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How You Get Checked For It |
Medical Exam; Q tip test (Women) Remove & test the Wart (Biopsy) |
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How You Prevent It |
Abstinence; No Contact with Infected Skin; CONDOMS DON’T PROTECT YOU |
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How You Get Rid of It |
NO CURE, Warts: Medicated Creams or Removal |
