Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that affects millions of people every year. There are more than 100 types of HPV, many of which are harmless. Some strains cause warts on the hands, feet, or face, while others affect the genital area. About 30 types of HPV can infect the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, anus, and rectum.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. An estimated 14 million people are newly infected each year. Because HPV often causes no symptoms, most people who have it don’t know they’re infected.
Some HPV strains are considered high risk because they can lead to cancer, especially cervical cancer. The good news is that HPV cervical cancer screening can detect early cell changes and prevent cancer in most cases.
HPV and Cervical Cancer: What’s the Connection?
Many patients ask, “Is HPV the same as cervical cancer?” The answer is no—but HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer.
High-risk strains of HPV, most commonly types 16 and 18, can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. This condition is called cervical dysplasia. If untreated, these abnormal cells may eventually become cancerous.
It’s important to know that:
- Not everyone with HPV will develop cervical cancer
- Most HPV infections clear on their own
- Regular screening can detect changes early
How HPV Causes Cervical Cancer
Patients often wonder how HPV causes cervical cancer. The virus itself does not turn into cancer. Instead, high-risk HPV strains interfere with normal cell growth, causing cells to change over time.
These abnormal cells may:
- Resolve on their own
- Persist and progress to precancer
- Develop into cancer over many years
This slow progression is why cervical cancer screening tests are so effective at prevention.
How Long Does It Take for HPV to Turn Into Cancer?
HPV-related cancer development usually takes years or even decades. This long timeline allows providers to detect and treat abnormal cells before cancer develops.
This is why guidelines emphasize:
- Routine Pap smears
- HPV screening tests
- Follow-up testing when results are abnormal
Early detection is the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of HPV?
Most people with genital HPV have no symptoms.
When symptoms occur, they are usually caused by low-risk HPV strains and may include:
- Genital warts, which are rough or cauliflower-like
- Itching or discomfort in the genital area
High-risk HPV strains that cause cancer usually do not cause symptoms until cancer develops. This is why screening is essential.
Are All Warts Caused by HPV?
Yes—all warts are caused by HPV, but not all HPV causes warts.
Low-risk HPV strains cause:
- Genital warts (most often types 6 and 11)
- Flat warts
- Plantar warts
- Periungual and subungual warts
High-risk HPV strains that can lead to cancer do not cause warts.
How Is HPV Spread?
HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, not bodily fluids. You can contract HPV through:
- Vaginal sex
- Oral sex
- Anal sex
- Close genital contact
Less commonly, HPV may spread through hand-to-genital contact.
Because HPV does not require ejaculation to spread, it is highly contagious.
Who Does HPV Affect?
Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV. Certain groups may be at higher risk for complications, including:
- People with weakened immune systems
- Individuals with HIV
- Men who have sex with men
Some patients may benefit from additional screening, such as anal Pap testing. Ask your provider what screening is appropriate for you.
HPV in Females
HPV poses the greatest health risk to females because of its association with cervical cancer.
Key points:
- HPV cervical cancer risk factors include persistent high-risk infection and lack of screening
- Pap smears and HPV tests can detect abnormal cells early
- HPV can also cause genital warts
HPV in Males
HPV usually causes fewer health problems in males, but it can still lead to:
- Genital warts
- Rare cancers of the penis, anus, head, and neck
Routine HPV testing is not generally recommended for males, but vaccination is strongly encouraged.
What Are the Complications of HPV?
The most serious complication of HPV is cancer. HPV-related cancers include:
- Cervical cancer (most common)
- Anal cancer
- Penile cancer
- Throat cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancer
Many patients ask, “What causes cervical cancer besides HPV?” While HPV causes nearly all cases, factors like smoking and immune suppression may increase risk when HPV is present.
How Do You Detect Cervical Cancer Early?
Early detection relies on routine screening.
Cervical Cancer Screening Tests
Common screening methods include:
- Pap smear: looks for abnormal cervical cells
- HPV screening test: detects high-risk HPV strains
Patients often ask about HPV test vs Pap smear:
- Pap smear checks for cell changes
- HPV test checks for the virus itself
- Many guidelines now recommend co-testing
Your provider can advise how often HPV screening is needed based on your age and results.
When Should Cervical Cancer Screening Begin?
Screening typically starts at age 21.
Factors that influence cervical cancer age and screening frequency include:
- Age
- Test results
- Immune status
Ask your provider:
- How often HPV screening should be done
- How to book a cervical cancer screening at a local health center
- Which clinics offer affordable cervical cancer screening services
HPV Diagnosis and Testing Options
Providers can diagnose visible warts by exam. High-risk HPV is usually found through screening.
Additional diagnostic procedures may include:
- Colposcopy
- Cervical biopsy
- Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) in low-resource settings
Patients often ask:
- What HPV home test kits are FDA-approved and reliable?
- Are there any online services that provide HPV testing kits?
Your healthcare provider can help you understand which testing options are appropriate and accurate.
HPV Treatment Options
There is no cure for HPV, but treatments can manage complications.
Treatment may include:
- Cryosurgery
- LEEP
- Electrocautery
- Laser therapy
- Prescription creams
- Chemical treatments
Only a small percentage of people with high-risk HPV develop abnormal cells that require treatment.
Outlook and Prognosis
The outlook for HPV is generally excellent.
- About 90% of infections clear within 1–2 years
- High-risk strains can be monitored and treated
- Early screening prevents most cervical cancers
Can HPV Be Prevented?
While abstinence is the only way to fully prevent HPV, risk can be reduced by:
- HPV vaccination
- Regular screening
- Safer sex practices
- Partner communication
Vaccination is most effective when given before sexual activity but still offers benefits later in life.
When Should You See Your Healthcare Provider?
Contact your provider if you have:
- Genital warts
- Abnormal Pap smear results
- Questions about HPV exposure or screening
You should also discuss screening if you have a condition that weakens your immune system.
