10 Facts about HPV
- HPV is very common
About 75% of sexually active people get HPV at some point. - HPV often has no symptoms
Most infections cause no symptoms. - HPV is contagious
It spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, not bodily fluids. - Low-risk HPV and warts
Low-risk HPV types can cause genital warts but don’t lead to cancer. - High-risk HPV and cancer
A high-risk type needs follow-up monitoring for cervical cell changes. - Most HPV clears on its own
Many infections go away within one to two years without causing any issues. - HPV can stay dormant
HPV that doesn’t clear can remain for years without you knowing. - Smoking slows HPV recovery
Smoking and vaping weakens the immune system, making HPV harder to clear. - HPV vaccination protects
The vaccine prevents new infections and is recommended for all genders. - HPV can affect anyone
It can cause cervical, anal, penile, throat, and other cancers in all genders. Getting screened (tested) and vaccination lowers the risk.
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