Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, affecting millions of people worldwide. A Woman’s Place in Naples wants to in empower women with the knowledge to protect their health and prevent HPV-related complications.
What Is HPV?
HPV is a group of over 200 related viruses, some of which can lead to health problems such as genital warts and certain cancers. While most HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infections with high-risk strains can lead to:
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Anal cancer
- Throat and mouth cancers
How Is HPV Transmitted?
HPV spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It’s so common that nearly all sexually active individuals will contract some form of HPV at some point in their lives.
Symptoms of HPV
HPV often has no symptoms, making it difficult to detect without screening. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Genital warts: Small, cauliflower-like bumps on the genital or anal area.
- Abnormal Pap smear results: An indication of potential cervical cell changes caused by HPV.
The Importance of Prevention
- Get vaccinated: The HPV vaccine is safe and effective in preventing the most dangerous strains of the virus. It’s recommended for boys and girls starting at age 11–12 but can be given up to age 45.
- Regular screenings: Pap smears and HPV testing can detect early changes in cervical cells, allowing for timely intervention.
- Practice safe sex: Use condoms and dental dams to reduce the risk of transmission.
HPV Vaccination: A Key Preventive Measure
The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk strains that cause most cervical and other HPV-related cancers. It’s a crucial step in reducing the global burden of HPV-related diseases.
Why Routine Screenings Matter
Early detection of HPV and related cell changes through Pap smears and HPV tests is vital. When caught early, abnormal cells can often be treated before they develop into cancer.
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to support your health. From HPV vaccination to routine screenings, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit: https://www.awpnaples.com/contact/.
Further Reading:
Learn more about HPV and prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/hpv.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, affecting millions of people worldwide. A Woman’s Place in Naples wants to in empower women with the knowledge to protect their health and prevent HPV-related complications.
What Is HPV?
HPV is a group of over 200 related viruses, some of which can lead to health problems such as genital warts and certain cancers. While most HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infections with high-risk strains can lead to:
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Anal cancer
- Throat and mouth cancers
How Is HPV Transmitted?
HPV spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It’s so common that nearly all sexually active individuals will contract some form of HPV at some point in their lives.
Symptoms of HPV
HPV often has no symptoms, making it difficult to detect without screening. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Genital warts: Small, cauliflower-like bumps on the genital or anal area.
- Abnormal Pap smear results: An indication of potential cervical cell changes caused by HPV.
The Importance of Prevention
- Get vaccinated: The HPV vaccine is safe and effective in preventing the most dangerous strains of the virus. It’s recommended for boys and girls starting at age 11–12 but can be given up to age 45.
- Regular screenings: Pap smears and HPV testing can detect early changes in cervical cells, allowing for timely intervention.
- Practice safe sex: Use condoms and dental dams to reduce the risk of transmission.
HPV Vaccination: A Key Preventive Measure
The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk strains that cause most cervical and other HPV-related cancers. It’s a crucial step in reducing the global burden of HPV-related diseases.
Why Routine Screenings Matter
Early detection of HPV and related cell changes through Pap smears and HPV tests is vital. When caught early, abnormal cells can often be treated before they develop into cancer.
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to support your health. From HPV vaccination to routine screenings, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit: https://www.awpnaples.com/contact/.
Further Reading:
Learn more about HPV and prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/hpv.
