Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) overview

Definition

What is HPV?

HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus (pap-ah-LO-mah-VYE-rus). According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV is the most common sexually transmitted virus in the United States. About 20 million Americans have HPV, and some 6 million people become newly infected each year. Odds are that more than half of sexually active people will eventually get genital HPV.

Disease abbreviations can be confusing. It’s important to note that HPV is not the same as HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus) or HIV. There are 40 different types of HPV that can be passed along during sexual activity. Most people infected with HPV will not be aware of it and will not experience any signs or symptoms.

Symptoms

Complications

Testing

Treatment

Prevention

Primary Sources

• Cotch MF, Pastorek JG 2nd, Nugent RP, Hillier SL, Gibbs RS, Martin DH, Eschenbach DA, Edelman R, Carey JC, Regan JA, Krohn MA, Klebanoff MA, Rao AV, Rhoads GG. Trichomonas vaginalis associated with low birth weight and preterm delivery. The Vaginal Infections and Prematurity Study Group. Sex Transm Dis. 1997;24(6):353.
• d'Oro LC, Parazzini F, Naldi L, La Vecchia C. Barrier methods of contraception, spermicides, and sexually transmitted diseases: a review. Genitourin Med 1994; 70:410.
• Sutton M, Sternberg M, Koumans EH, McQuillan G, Berman S, Markowitz L. The prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis infection among reproductive-age women in the United States, 2001-2004. Clin Infect Dis. 2007;45(10):1319-26

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