Human papillomavirus (HPV) is extremely common, and many people who become infected do not develop symptoms. In many cases, the immune system clears the infection on its own without the person ever realizing they had it.
Because Human papillomavirus can be silent, regular preventive care remains important.
Why Can HPV Go Unnoticed?
Human papillomavirus is a group of more than 150 related viruses. Some types can cause genital warts, while others can cause certain cancers.
Many HPV infections do not produce noticeable symptoms. This means you may feel completely healthy while still carrying the virus.
Not having symptoms does not necessarily mean you do not have HPV.
Human papillomavirus can also spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Because someone may not know they have the virus, it can be passed between partners without either person realizing it.
Can HPV Go Away on Its Own?
In most cases, the body’s immune system controls an Human papillomavirus infection naturally. Many infections clear within one to two years.
However, some infections can persist. Certain high-risk HPV types can cause cellular changes that may eventually contribute to cancers, including cervical cancer.
That is why prevention and recommended screening are important even when you feel healthy.
How Can You Know If You Have Human papillomavirus?
There is not a general test that determines a person’s overall Human papillomavirus status. For people with a cervix, HPV testing may be included as part of cervical cancer screening according to age and individual screening recommendations.
Your OB-GYN can explain which screening approach is appropriate for you.
HPV vaccination is another important way to help prevent infection with Human papillomavirus types associated with several cancers and genital warts.
When Should You Talk With Your OB-GYN?
Talk with a provider at CWC OBGYN if you have questions about HPV, cervical cancer screening, vaccination, genital warts, or your individual risk. Our providers offer preventive women’s health care, including guidance on Human papillomavirus and recommended cervical cancer screening.
Call us at 301-593-8101 to speak with a member of our team or schedule a consultation online and discuss your Human papillomavirus questions with our team.
