Want the facts on HPV virus in women? Are you at risk? What are the symptoms? Are there treatments? I recommend reviewing the following information for basic understanding. More detailed research can be done online before consulting a physician.

What is it?

Human Papilloma Virus or HPV, is the name for a group of viruses. Out of 100 types, 40 can be passed through sexual contact. Some types infect the genital area. More than 50% of sexually active adults contract HPV at some point in their lives. Most of the time it never shows and any symptoms and goes undetected.

What are the Risks?

Some types of HPV in women can lead to cervical cancer. These types are known as high-risk HPV. It should be noted that high-risk HPV usually causes no health problems. If you suspect that you might have high-risk HPV, your doctor will look for changes on your cervix during Pap tests.

Low-risk HPV is much less serious but can cause genital warts after sexual contact. It can take week, months or years before the warts show up. In women genital warts inside and around the outside of the vagina, on the vulva (lips) and on the anus. They may itch, burn, or cause discomfort. Women need to get a Pap test at the first sign of warts.

What about the Vaccine?

Currently the HPV vaccine is available to females aged 9 to 26. A shot is given in three times over a six-month period. Pregnant women shouldn’t receive the HPV vaccine until after the baby is born. It works best in girls that have not had sex. Studies show the vaccine prevents 70 percent of cervical cancers if it is given to women and girls before they have sex for the first time. Tests show that it is safe and doesn’t appear to have any severe side-effects.

What are the Treatments?

There are treatments for the changes HPV causes to the cervix and treatments for genital warts. Abnormal cells on the cervix are commonly removed with freezing, burning, laser or biopsy. Cells may return so future treatments may be necessary. Genital warts are removed by freezing, laser or cutting. Sometimes the warts will go away without treatment.

How do I Prevent HPV?

Prevention is always better than treatment. To make sure you don’t contract the virus you should ask about the vaccine, always use condoms and get regular Pap tests. There is also evidence that smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer.