As you mature and consider becoming sexually active, it’s important to educate yourself on how to stay safe. In addition to exploring birth control methods, gynecologists want every patient to understand sexually transmitted diseases, such as human papillomavirus, and how they relate to overall health and wellness. As a refresher, here are some crucial statistics every sexually active individual, both male and female, should know about HPV. 

4 Facts About HPV

1. HPV is the Most Common Sexually-Transmitted Disease

According to the CDC, roughly 79 million Americans have the human papillomavirus, making it the most common sexually transmitted disease. In fact, approximately 50% of sexually active adults contract the virus at some point. Certain types clear up on their own, while other strains can result in genital warts and an increased risk of cancer in the penis, vagina, anus, throat, and cervix. 

2. Birth Control Does Not Provide Protection from HPV

Contraceptives, including condoms, cannot protect you from contracting HPV. This is because the virus can live in the scrotum and other areas of the genitalia. Thus, any skin-to-skin genital contact can result in its spread. 

3. HPV Can Stay Dormant for Years

After visiting your gynecologist for a pap smear and being informed that you have HPV, it’s natural to assume your current sexual partner passed the virus on to you. Unfortunately, that is not necessarily the case. This virus can stay dormant in cells for years without producing symptoms, so it’s challenging to gauge when you contracted the disease and from whom.  

4. A Vaccine Is Available

At this time, there are two different FDA-approved vaccines to protect against HPV. While these vaccinations cannot protect against every strain of the virus, they do protect you from types that can cause genital warts and precancerous cells. Talk to your doctor about whether you're a candidate for this immunization.

North Little Rock Women's Clinic is a state-of-the-art medical facility with compassionate, experienced gynecologists and support staff who proudly serve residents throughout Pulaski, County, AR. If you have questions about birth control, sexually transmitted diseases like HPV, or you want to establish an ongoing relationship with a trusted women’s doctor who can tend to your overall health, call the office today at (501) 835-9444 to schedule your first appointment. For additional information on this clinic’s commitment to providing caring and advanced medical treatment, visit their website.