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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly all sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives. In this blog post, we will discuss HPV as an STD, its symptoms, prevention methods, and how Nao Medical can help you get tested and treated in NYC.
What is HPV?
HPV is a virus that can cause warts on the skin or mucous membranes. There are more than 100 types of HPV, and some of them can lead to cancer. HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It can also be spread by sharing sex toys.
What are the symptoms of HPV?
Most people with HPV do not have any symptoms and may not even know they have the virus. Some people may develop warts on the genitals, anus, or mouth. These warts can be flat or raised, small or large, and may appear alone or in clusters. In rare cases, HPV can cause cancer of the cervix, anus, penis, or throat.
How can HPV be prevented?
The best way to prevent HPV is to get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is recommended for all boys and girls at age 11 or 12, but it can be given as early as age 9. The vaccine is also recommended for men and women up to age 26 who did not get vaccinated when they were younger. The vaccine is most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active.
Other ways to prevent HPV include:
- Using condoms correctly and consistently during sex
- Limiting the number of sexual partners
- Getting regular Pap tests or HPV tests if you are a woman
- Getting regular anal Pap tests if you are a man who has sex with men
- Avoiding sex with anyone who has genital warts or other symptoms of an STI
How is HPV diagnosed and treated?
HPV is usually diagnosed through a physical exam and/or a Pap test or HPV test. A healthcare provider may also do a biopsy or colposcopy to check for abnormal cells or cancer.
There is no cure for HPV, but there are treatments for the symptoms it causes. Warts can be removed by freezing, burning, or cutting them off. Abnormal cells or cancer can be treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
How can Nao Medical help with HPV testing and treatment?
Nao Medical offers comprehensive sexual health services, including HPV testing and treatment. Our clinics in NYCoffer a safe and welcoming environment where you can get confidential and affordable care. We use the latest technology to provide quick and accurate test results, and our caring and knowledgeable staff can answer any questions you may have about HPV or other STIs.
If you suspect you have been exposed to HPV or any other STI, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at Nao Medical. Our clinics offer short wait times, low cost compared to emergency care, beautifully designed clinics, tech-focused approach (allowing you to get access to all health records through our tech platform), and a strong telemedicine and after-hour service offerings so that patients can get care how and when they need it.
FAQs
Q: Can HPV be cured?
A: There is no cure for HPV, but there are treatments for the symptoms it causes, such as warts or abnormal cells.
Q: Is the HPV vaccine safe?
A: Yes, the HPV vaccine is safe and effective. It has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been given to millions of people around the world.
Q: Can I get HPV from a toilet seat or towel?
A: No, HPV is not spread through contact with objects like toilet seats or towels.
Q: Should I get tested for HPV?
A: If you are sexually active, you should talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested for HPV. The test is usually done as part of a Pap test or HPV test.
