HPV Symptoms in Females

 

About Human Papilloma Virus

According to the CDC, HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is the most commonly spread sexually transmitted infection. Over 70 million Americans have been diagnosed with HPV, most of those ranging from their late teens to early twenties.

HPV can be spread by participating or vaginal, oral, and anal sex. It’s even possible to contract HPV from a partner who has shown no signs or symptoms of having the virus. While some strains of the virus cause genital warts, others may not be detected until years later and can increase your risk of cancer. That is why it is important to know HPV symptoms in females and to get tested regularly.

HPV Vaccination

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all women under 27 and all men under 21 get the HPV immunization. While there are over 100 different types of HPV, Gardasil (the HPV vaccine) protects against only the HPV-6, HPV-11, HPV-16, and HPV-18 strains. Because of this, safe sex and regular STD testing and health screenings are necessary.

HPV Symptoms in Females and Males

Most people with Human Papilloma Virus do not present any symptoms. The most notable of any HPV symptom is genital warts. However, the more high risk HPV strains, those that cause cancer, do not have any associated signs in the early stages. If the virus does cause cancer, then an abnormal pap smear may detect the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells. Similarly, changes in the color of the penis or rectal bleeding may indicate penile and anal cancer.

HPV and Getting Tested

As mentioned earlier, HPV symptoms in females and males are a rarity. In most cases, HPV will not cause adverse health problems and will go away on its own. However, there is not guarantee that will happen. Because of the risks related to cervical and penile cancer, practicing safe sex and getting STD testing yearly for sexually transmitted diseases is the most effective way of ensuring you stay healthy.