Getting An Understanding Of The Papillomavirus HPV Virus

Papillomavirus HPV

Studies show that the Papillomavirus HPV has become one of the most highly contractible, sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. It is also projected that the virus of HPV is also highly widespread throughout the world. There are over 15 million individuals in the United States alone that have the HPV virus. Add to that the fact that over 80% of women will get this disease before they are 50 and it is clear that this virus is a huge factor in cervical cancer development.

There are more than one hundred strains of the human Papillomavirus HPV, most of them non-cancerous. About 30 of these are contracted through sexual contact. It has been observed that any adult who has had more than one sexual partner, or has had intimate relationships with a partner who has had sex with more than one person, is a candidate for contacting this virus. Genital warts are one of the most visible indicators that you have been infected with the virus, which unfortunately often develops after a long incubation period, during which time neither you (as the infected person) nor your partner would know about the virus HPV, yet it could still be easily passed on through sex.

It is very important to get an annual pap test to determine if you have been infected with Papillomavirus HPV. This is a very simple test. Your doctor scraps off a few cells from your cervix and has them examined for cancer. The importance of this test is paramount, as about 99 per cent of women who develop cervical cancer die. These are terrible odds, which can only be countered by having regular check ups and avoiding unprotected sexual contact. Also be aware that the virus can spread, not only through sexual intercourse, but also through anal and oral sex.

There is, fortunately, an HPV vaccination available for the different strains of Papillomavirus HPV. The vaccine comes in the form of an injection and has been developed to help women keep from contracting this virus. As of now, it is not know if the vaccine will help males who have the HPV infection. Concerning women, the vaccine keeps them from getting the infection, which can help prevent both genital warts and cervical cancer. The vaccine is most effective if it is given to young women who have not yet had sex, which normally would include girls between the ages of nine and thirteen.