HPV is known for its link to the development ofcervical cancerand other cancers.
HPV is also responsible forgenital warts.
They may be less likely to receive preventive care such as vaccination and screening.
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What Is HPV?
The strains that cause warts are different from the strains that cause cancer.
HPV 16 and 18 have been linked to 66% of all cervical cancer diagnoses.
HPV 31, 33, 34, 45, 52, and 58 are also associated with cancers.
The HPV virus can be transmitted through intimate contact, such as mutual masturbation.
HPV can be passed between two people regardless of their gender, genitals, or sexual orientation.
These early changes can sometimes lead to cervical cancer.
In many cases, HPV will resolve on its own without medicaltreatment.
There is a popular misconception among some that lesbians do not need Pap smears.
This is entirely false.
These screening guidelines are recommended for all people with a vagina/cervix even if you have been vaccinated against HPV.
If you have abnormal results, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests or more frequent screening.
As of 2016, only Gardasil 9 is approved for HPV vaccination in the US.
However, HPV infection can cause genital warts and some kinds of cancers.
It is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact regardless of gender or sexual identity.
Don’t presume that non-penetrative sex puts you at less risk for HPV.
Ensure that you are routinely screened for the virus and that any changes in cervical tissue are closely monitored.
Doing so can significantly decrease your risk of cervical cancer and other HPV-related malignancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
HPV may be spread by skin-to-skin contact without any symptoms.
Some people develop genital warts.
Other strains of the virus can cause cervical, anal, or head and neck cancers.
Regular screening done by your healthcare provider is the best way to detect cancer early.
HPV is most often spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact involving the genitals.
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