HPV Myths
Tori Douglas on Feb 18th 2020
The Human Papillomavirus, most commonly known as HPV, is the most common type of STI. It causes warts on various body parts, and is very easily spread through sexual contact or from mother to child during birth or nursing. While HPV usually resolves itself without medical intervention, it can lead to several types of cancer. Even though HPV is the most common and easily spread STI, there is a lot of myth and misinformation floating around about this virus.
Myth #1
HPV is a women’s issue.
Studies have shown that 80% of people, regardless of sex, will be infected with HPV. HPV, if untreated, can cause cancer in all sexes. Cervical cancer, anal cancer, cancer of the vagina, vulva, and penis, as well as oropharengeal cancer are possible with an infection of HPV. Since HPV usually shows no symptoms, regular screening for the virus is necessary for sexual health.
Myth #2
HPV affects fertility and pregnancy.
Regular screening, especially during a flare up of general warts, can ensure a normal pregnancy, even with HPV. Pregnancy is not affected by the HPV vaccine. A diagnosis of HPV, if properly managed, will not affect either fertility or the health of the pregnancy or the baby.
Myth #3
The HPV vaccine is life-long protection.
The newest data shows that the HPV vaccine is effective for at least ten years. After this time, the vaccine can lose effectiveness. A booster is required for maximum efficacy of the vaccine over time. Talk to your medical care provider to set up a vaccine schedule in order to stay protected.
Myth #4
Condoms eliminate the risk of spreading HPV.
While proper use of condoms and other barrier methods protect against STI’s like gonorrhea, they are less effective against HPV. Human Papillomavirus is most easily spread through skin to skin contact. While condom use can certainly lower the risk of contracting HPV, the areas of skin to skin contact not covered by a condom, such as the scrotum, vulva, and perineum, are still subject to contact, and thus exposure and risk of HPV transmission. Regardless of your level of sexual activity, you should work to protect yourself and your partner or partners as much as possible from exposure to HPV.
Myth #5
Genital warts always lead to cervical cancer.
While an HPV infection is certainly a serious risk factor for cervical cancer, one does not necessarily lead to the other. Some types of HPV are not found in cancer, and some types of HPV are not found to cause genital warts. As stated before, regular screening for and monitoring of HPV and its symptoms can lessen the risk of cancer.
Having an STI can be a scary and isolating experience. Knowing the facts, and knowing your options for protection and treatment, will always help to empower you. As with all sexual health issues, protecting yourself and your partner or partners from exposure to Human Papillomavirus comes from empowering yourself with knowledge, and implementing that knowledge in your sexual life. Stop by Badd Kitty to speak to one of our knowledgeable associates today. We are committed to helping you on your path to healthy sexual wellness.