Frequently Asked Questions

HPV stands for Human papillomavirus. It is one of the most common viral infections transmitted sexually or through skin-to-skin contact. HPV infections usually go away on their own within 2 years. But if they don’t, the virus can cause Genital warts or even cancer in some cases.

Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear as small, raised bumps that can be flesh-colored or slightly darker in color. Genital warts are usually found on the genitals, but can also appear around the anus or in the mouth. They can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. While genital warts are usually harmless, they can still cause discomfort or embarrassment and may require medical treatment to remove. Additionally, some strains of HPV that cause genital warts can also lead to more serious health issues, such as cervical cancer.

Get vaccinated – There are vaccines available that protect against the most common strains of HPV, including the strains that cause genital warts and cervical cancer.

Practice safe sex – Using condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission, but they don't offer complete protection because HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area.

Limit your number of sexual partners – The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of contracting HPV.

Get screened regularly – Women should undergo regular Pap tests or HPV tests, which can detect the presence of abnormal cells or the HPV virus before they turn into cancer.

There are treatments available for the symptoms and complications associated with HPV. These treatments may include:

Genital warts: Warts can be treated with topical medications or freezing, laser therapy, or surgery.

Cervical dysplasia: Mild cases of dysplasia may not require treatment and will clear up on their own, but more severe cases may require surgery, cryotherapy, laser therapy or a LEEP procedure.

HPV-related cancers: Treatment will depend on the type of cancer and the stage it has progressed to. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of treatments.

Usually, there are no signs and symptoms related to HPV infection. However, if the infection persists, it can lead to the development of certain conditions such as genital warts or cancers of the cervix, penis, anus, throat, or oral cavity. These conditions may show some symptoms, such as:

Genital warts: Small- or large-sized bumps or groups of bumps in the genital or anal area, which may be flat, raised, or cauliflower-shaped.

Cervical cancer: Abnormal vaginal bleeding during or after sexual intercourse, between periods, or after menopause, and pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.

Anal cancer: Anal bleeding, anal discharge, pain or pressure in the anal region, and lumps or swelling in the anal area.

Penile cancer: Changes in color or thickness of the skin, lumps or growths on the penis, and discharge from the penis.

Throat or oral cavity cancer: Persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, and presence of lumps or growths in the mouth or throat.