HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. It is a group of related viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes of humans. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide.
There are many types of HPV, some of which can cause genital warts, while others are linked to cervical cancer. Therefore, getting tested is of the utmost importance.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is usually spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, most commonly through sexual activity. Many people who are infected with HPV do not show any symptoms and may clear the infection on their own.
However, some HPV infections persist and can lead to health problems such as genital warts or cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the throat, tongue, and tonsils). Regular screening, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, is also important for early detection and treatment of HPV-related health issues.
HPV Testing is aimed at detecting the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and typically involves collecting a small sample of cells from the cervix or other affected areas.
We test for HPV as part of our cervical smear testing and can also tell you what kind (high or low-risk, and subtype) of HPV you have to assess your risk of cervical cancer and genital warts and will give you a recommendation about how frequently you need to have a smear test.
We also offer a vaccine against human papilloma virus. If you have not been sexually active, this can be administered to a woman of any age. If you have been sexually active, we recommend checking your current HPV status first.
High-risk HPV and low-risk HPV refer to different types of the Human Papillomavirus based on their potential to cause cancer. It is important to note that both high-risk and low-risk HPV types can be transmitted through sexual activity, but their outcomes in terms of health risks differ significantly.
High-risk HPV: These are HPV types that have been linked to an increased risk of developing cancers if not detected and treated.
Low-risk HPV: These HPV types are less likely to cause cancers. Instead, they are primarily associated with benign conditions such as genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminata).
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is classified into several subtypes:
Low-Risk HPV Types: The most common low-risk HPV types include HPV 6 and HPV 11.
High-Risk HPV Types: The most common high-risk HPV types include HPV 16, HPV 18, HPV 31, HPV 33, HPV 45, and HPV 52, among others.
Intermediate-Risk HPV Types: These types have been associated with a lower but still notable risk of causing cancer compared to high-risk types. Examples include HPV 26, HPV 53, and HPV 66.
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection with the most common high-risk HPV types (HPV 16 and 18), which cause cancers, and some low-risk types (HPV 6 and 11), responsible for genital warts. The HPV vaccination is recommended for both males and females, ideally before they become sexually active.
Practicing safe sex, such as using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners, also significantly helps prevent HPV. While condoms do not provide complete protection against HPV because the virus can infect areas not covered by the condom, consistent and correct use can reduce the risk of transmission.
Yes, HPV infections often go away on their own without causing any health problems. Most people who become infected with HPV will clear the infection naturally within 1 to 2 years. This is especially true for low-risk HPV types that cause genital warts.
However, in some cases, HPV infections persist. Persistent infections, especially with high-risk HPV types, can potentially lead to serious health issues like cancer. It is important to note that even when HPV clears on its own, the virus can remain dormant in the body and potentially re-activate later.
Here are some approximate percentages related to HPV (Human Papillomavirus):
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When scheduling your screening, it is advisable to avoid planning it during your menstrual period. This recommendation is primarily to ensure the effectiveness of the test and your comfort during the procedure. During menstruation, the presence of blood can sometimes interfere with the accuracy of certain tests, such as Pap smears used to screen for cervical cancer. Blood may obscure the cells collected during the test, potentially leading to inconclusive results or necessitating a repeat test.
Screening for HPV typically involves a normal cervical smear test, which is a routine procedure aimed at detecting early signs of cervical cancer or HPV infection. During the test, a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to hold the vaginal walls open, allowing the healthcare provider to access the cervix. Using a soft swab or brush, the doctor collects cells from the cervix for analysis. Despite the use of a speculum and the intimate nature of the procedure, it is generally not considered painful for most individuals.
Once your screening results are ready, the doctor will contact you directly to discuss them and any further steps that may be required. This follow-up conversation is crucial as it allows you to understand the outcome of the screening and any necessary actions or additional tests that may be recommended based on the results. Once you have had this discussion with your GP and any necessary follow-ups are determined, we will proceed to email the results to you.
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