HPV Specialist

What is HPV?

HPV or the Human Papilloma Virus is an extremely common sexually transmitted disease. There are many varieties of HPV that cause a variety of symptoms. Some forms of HPV may cause warts to develop on the hands or feet, while other types may cause genital warts. HPV warts vary in appearance and size. Some strains of the virus cause abnormal cells to develop on the cervix and have links to cervical or vaginal cancer.

How’s HPV diagnosed?

HPV is most often diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam and pap smear when abnormal cervical cells are identified. Like many sexually transmitted infections, HPV does not present symptoms in its early stages, so routine testing is the best way to monitor your health. HPV tests are not always included in routine pelvic exams or well-woman visits, so if you feel like you are at risk or are experiencing symptoms, ask Dr. Patterson to perform an HPV screening during your exam.

If I get HPV does that mean I’m going to get cancer?

Not necessarily. Not every type of HPV causes cancer. Only high-risk forms of the virus can lead to cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, or throat. Cervical cancer is most commonly associated with HPV. In most cases, HPV goes away on its own without causing any symptoms or issues. Women who have conditions that affect their ability to fight off illnesses are more likely to suffer long-term effects from HPV.

What is the treatment for high-risk HPV?

There is no known treatment for HPV. However, with regular pap smears and pelvic exams, any changes in the cells of the cervix are identified and treated before they develop into cancer. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of the disease; it can be diagnosed in its early or even pre-cancerous stages. Once detected, treatment is quick and effective. There is an HPV vaccine, although it is more effective on patients under the age of 26, who are not yet sexually active. The HPV vaccine protects women from the 2 strains of HPV that are linked to approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. If you are sexually active, be sure to practice safe sex practices, using condoms and other barrier methods such as dental dams to reduce the risk of contracting HPV.