HIV and HPV

Genital Human Papillomavirus or HPV is a common virus which is spread by skin to skin contact. There are over 100 different strains of the virus, and at least 30 strains have been directly related to cervical cancers and anal warts. Transmitted during sexual contact, HPV can take years to show symptoms, and sometimes no symptoms will develop. The most identifying symptom is a cauliflower-like growth on the genitals, anus or vagina.

HPV in not a curable illness, but treatment can relieve discomfort, and when infected, a person should take note of any new sores as they appear and bring it up with one’s doctor. Evidence suggests that HIV infection may play a role in the outcome of HPV infections because of immunosuppression. A vaccine has been developed and is currently only approved for HPV prevention in younger females. The vaccine has so far only been proven to help prevent HPV from becoming cervical cancers, but as studies progress, and further research is done, the vaccine may be approved for more use in both females and males.

Do you have any questions or concerns about HPV? We’d love to hear from you!