Facts You Should Know About HPV

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is one of the most complex and widespread STDs out there. In fact, HPV is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection in the United States. This is partly due to the fact that it doesn’t have to be contracted sexually. The virus can not only cause a lot of shame, discomfort, and pain, it can lead to unfortunate complications.

It is important for everyone to understand sexually transmitted infections like HSV (herpes) and HPV to prevent the spread and the subsequent diseases that can come from it. Read on to learn more about the virus and how we can prevent it, screen for it, and treat it when necessary.

HPV Can Cause Cervical Cancer

When women contract HPV, they are much more susceptible to cervical cancer. Nearly every case of cancer in the cervix is preceded by an infection of HPV. Now that the research has caught up it is much easier to screen for this type of cancer, especially when you are aware that you have HPV. That’s just one reason why it is so pivotal to get tested for the virus. Not only can you get the peace of mind necessary to overcome a positive diagnosis, but women can also better plan for their health and prevent the spread of cancer that began in the cervix.

Testing is Easier than Ever

While the possibility of cancer may be daunting, there is no need to fear. Testing for HPV is more accessible than ever. Soon there will be widely available at-home tests. With more private testing, the unnecessary but valid shame will be removed from the equation. This will motivate more people to get tested for HPV. As more people find out whether or not they have dormant HPV, they will be able to get treated for their necessary ailments. Women will be able to prevent complications like cervical cancer and others. With all of this pertinent knowledge, every strain of HPV can be treated consistently. Once you have been tested, you can treat the symptoms.

Symptoms & Treatments

The most common symptom of HPV is genital warts. Most people who contract HPV get warts that can be painful and uncomfortable. Luckily there are medications for them. You can prevent the outbreak of warts with prescription medications such as pills and anti-tumor topical cream. Even if you get infected by the human papilloma virus, it is entirely possible to live a happy and healthy life.

Other symptoms itching and redness on the genitals. While HPV can cause a lot of discomfort, many people who contract the virus don’t have any symptoms at all. This is why it is so important to get tested for it. You could be unaware that you have HPV and give it to someone when you have unprotected sex. Especially if you are a man and don’t have symptoms, you could give HPV to a woman that may have complications.

If a woman doesn’t who she has HPV, she could be at risk for cervical cancer. Without knowing that you are at risk, you could wait too long to get screened and cancer could spread. Furthermore, this is also why awareness of HPV and its dynamic complications need to be spread to prevent the spread of the virus itself.

Vaccines

If you have been tested and do not have HPV, you have the opportunity to get vaccinated for it. This is a great opportunity. When you haven’t already been vaccinated, you can get a vaccination to be fortified from the sexually transmitted infection. Testing is pivotal. Treatment is imperative. Screening is key. Vaccines are necessary. There is no reason that you shouldn’t get a test and then a vaccine for HPV. When complications can be so easily prevented, showing due diligence for your sexual reproductive health will enable you to live your healthiest and happiest life. You won’t be sorry. Avoiding the discomfort and health issues that come with HPV will change your life.

Being informed about HPV can be the difference between contracting the virus and avoiding it entirely. Awareness is so important. So many people don’t know that HPV can be without symptoms and can cause cervical cancer at the same time. It is time to take care of yourself. Get tested for HPV today.

Ryan Beitler is a journalist, writer, and blogger who has covered health issues for a variety of sites. He has also written for The Slovenia Times, Addiction Now, Paste Magazine, and many more.