By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Accept
Health Works CollectiveHealth Works CollectiveHealth Works Collective
  • Health
    • Mental Health
    Health
    Healthcare organizations are operating on slimmer profit margins than ever. One report in August showed that they are even lower than the beginning of the…
    Show More
    Top News
    Cognitive Psychology and Risk-taking in Extreme Sports
    Theodore Rex Walrond Highlights the Connection between Cognitive Psychology and Healthcare
    April 1, 2025
    stress management for healthcare workers
    3 Tips For Healthcare Professionals: How To Stay Beautiful, Healthy, and Happy
    November 2, 2021
    importance of relaxing on the weekend for your health
    Importance of Relaxing During the Weekend for Optimal Health
    March 25, 2022
    Latest News
    Beyond Nutrition: Everyday Foods That Support Whole-Body Health
    June 15, 2025
    The Wide-Ranging Benefits of Magnesium Supplements
    June 11, 2025
    The Best Home Remedies for Migraines
    June 5, 2025
    The Hidden Impact Of Stress On Your Body’s Alignment And Balance
    May 22, 2025
  • Policy and Law
    • Global Healthcare
    • Medical Ethics
    Policy and Law
    Get the latest updates about Insurance policies and Laws in the Healthcare industry for different geographical locations.
    Show More
    Top News
    Image
    Person-Centered HealthCare: The FDA Gets Patient-Centric
    May 31, 2013
    Does the Supreme Court Understand Health Reform?
    April 12, 2012
    Racial Health Disparities Among People with Chronic Conditions in the US: Facts and Statistics
    July 25, 2013
    Latest News
    Top HIPAA-Compliant Messaging Apps for Healthcare Teams
    June 25, 2025
    When Healthcare Ends, the Legal Process Begins: What Families Should Know About Probate and Medical Estates
    June 20, 2025
    Preventing Contamination In Healthcare Facilities Starts With Hygiene
    June 15, 2025
    Strengthening Healthcare Systems Through Clinical and Administrative Career Development
    June 13, 2025
  • Medical Innovations
  • News
  • Wellness
  • Tech
Search
© 2023 HealthWorks Collective. All Rights Reserved.
Reading: What Are HPV And What Are The Risks
Share
Notification Show More
Font ResizerAa
Health Works CollectiveHealth Works Collective
Font ResizerAa
Search
Follow US
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy
© 2023 HealthWorks Collective. All Rights Reserved.
Health Works Collective > Specialties > What Are HPV And What Are The Risks
Specialties

What Are HPV And What Are The Risks

John Henning
Last updated: December 22, 2020 5:27 pm
John Henning
Share
5 Min Read
SHARE

Contents
Symptoms of Cervical CancerHow To Avoid HPV

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is the most common of all sexually transmitted diseases. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), HPV infects over 79 million Americans in any given year, with 14 million new cases added a year. 

Once considered the #1 cause of cancer-related deaths in women, cervical cancer has dropped to # 15 of cancer deaths, but understanding the causes and catching cancer before it may spread (known as metastatic cancer) through screenings is crucial in overall women’s health.  

For women, cervical cancer is a significant health concern afflicting over 13,000 women annually. In fact, for women over 30 years of age, the risk of cervical cancer can increase every year. 

More Read

What Are the Health Risks of Low-Quality Memory Foam Mattresses?
Is Green Tea Good For Teeth & Gum Health
Expert Speakers, Opinions Highlight 2013 Bridging the Gap Concussion Conference
4 Terrible Injuries That Can Happen Because of a Motorcycle Accident
On the Road Again for Cancer Connections

However, since the test became standard practice, the rate of cervical cancer has plunged 70% from previous occurrence rates, which is primarily due to the increasing examination through the PAP smear test. 


HPV And Cervical Cancer

HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer in women and is more common in individuals in their teen years to young adults in their early 20’s. Additionally, cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus are increased due to the presence of HPV.

The virus is spread primarily through direct vaginal or anal penetration. However, it is easily transmissible, and the incidence of infection may also stem from oral sex or even spread by skin-to-skin contact. 

Research shows that HPV will go away for most individuals, though if it lingers, it is shown to lead to possible long-term health risks such as certain cervical cancers and sometimes, genital warts. Genital warts may appear on or around the groin and genitals. Genital warts can show themselves as small or large bumps, flat or raised in shape, or show up as small cauliflower polyps. 

The incubation period for HPV can be years later that a person becomes symptomatic, and it will be nearly impossible to trace back the cause of infection. As such, it’s vital to get the HPV vaccine. Vaccinations are recommended as early as 12 years old and can be administered in adults until age 26. 

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a hidden danger as it doesn’t exhibit symptoms in the early stages. In later stage development (including metastatic stage), symptoms may resemble those of other diseases and illnesses, so a doctor’s consultation is essential for a proper diagnosis. A diagnosis will eliminate other possible conditions. Through questioning and a PAP smear, it will adequately determine the extent of the issue.

  • Cervical cancer symptoms to be aware of include light blood spots following a period, excessive blood flow during menstruation, bleeding after vaginal intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam, among others.
    Bleeding during sex or other vaginal penetration
  • Painful intercourse
  • Excessive bleeding during a period
  • Increased vaginal discharge
  • Unusual and unexplained back pain 
  • Persistent pelvic pain

If symptoms are persistent, they should be brought to the attention of a primary care physician. They may be indicating severe health concerns for the individual, and a diagnosis and PAP smear may be needed to eliminate other possible health concerns. 

How To Avoid HPV

For sexually active individuals, there are a few ways to avoid contracting HPV. The first is to get a vaccination as early as possible, beginning at 12 years of age. The second is to use latex condoms in the manner they are designed. Keep in mind that a latex condom will protect only the covered area, and HPV may contaminate other areas. Finally, being in a committed monogamous relationship or a single partner that is monogamous with you. 

HPV and Cervical Cancer Screening For Expecting Mothers 

For pregnant or planning to become pregnant individuals, there are several things you should discuss with your Obstetrician before and during your pregnancy, such as the family history of diseases, health history, and other risk factors. 
As you progress through your pregnancy, there are several concerns to be aware of. There are issues of prenatal development, onset diabetes, and other risks associated with pregnancy. For the parent and fetus’s overall health and well-being, a complete health exam for both the mother and the fetus includes getting tested for various diseases, cervical and HPV cancer screenings.

Share This Article
Facebook Copy Link Print
Share
By John Henning
John Henning is a nutritionist, freelance writer, and food blogger that provides accessible nutrition info to help people live a healthier life. His unique approach to nutrition emphasizes nutrient-dense, whole foods and healthy habits rather than restrictive diets.

Stay Connected

1.5kFollowersLike
4.5kFollowersFollow
2.8kFollowersPin
136kSubscribersSubscribe

Latest News

women dental care
What Is a Smile Makeover and How Much Does It Cost?
Dental health
June 30, 2025
HIPAA-Compliant Messaging Apps
Top HIPAA-Compliant Messaging Apps for Healthcare Teams
Global Healthcare Policy & Law Technology
June 25, 2025
recovering from injury
Rebuilding After Injury: Path to Physical and Emotional Recovery
News
June 22, 2025
scientist using microscope
When Healthcare Ends, the Legal Process Begins: What Families Should Know About Probate and Medical Estates
Global Healthcare
June 18, 2025

You Might also Like

Make Cleaning Your Kid's Teeth Easier With These Tips
Dental health

Make Cleaning Your Kid’s Teeth Easier With These Tips

October 13, 2022
Image
Specialties

Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms

September 1, 2012
CardiologySpecialties

3 Things To Consider When Looking For A Heart Doctor

July 16, 2019
DiagnosticsPublic HealthRadiology

Mammography Scheduling Portal Helps Improve Screening Attendance in Denmark

January 26, 2012
Subscribe
Subscribe to our newsletter to get our newest articles instantly!
Follow US
© 2008-2025 HealthWorks Collective. All Rights Reserved.
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?