Human Papillomavirus
(HPV)
HPV is the most common STI with many different strains. Some types can cause health issues like genital warts and cancers. Most cases clear up on their own within 2 years with no associated health problems. There are vaccines that can prevent some health effects caused by HPV.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is no symptom at all. And unlike other STIs there’s no test to find out your status. Most people find out through an abnormal pap smear or if they develop genital warts.
How do you get it?
You can get HPV by engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has HPV. IT can also be spread by skin-to-skin touching during sex. HPV can be spread even if there are no symptoms present.
How do you protect yourself?
To protect yourself you have a few options. You can get the HPV vaccination which is available for all genders ages 9-26 years old. You can get screened for cervical cancers (pap smears) which is a recommended screening for women and AFAB people aged 21 years and older. Lastly, use a barrier method protection, like external and internal condoms, dental dams, and Loral’s latex undies.
For more information
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