Human papilloma viruses are known as HPV. There are more than 100 different strains and each type has a different number. Some are low risk and some are high risk.

Low risk strains can result in things like warts and verrucas. High risk types can cause changes in the cells which, in serious cases, can result in cancer.

What causes HPV and who can get it?

HPV can affect the skin and moist membranes that line parts of the body. These include the lining of the mouth and throat, the cervix in women and the anus. 

HPV is common and most people have the virus at some time in their lives. For most it causes no symptoms and goes away on its own. Anyone can get HPV.

Types of HPV that affect the skin are passed on by skin contact with an affected person. 

The types of HPV that affect the mouth and throat can be passed on through kissing. Genital HPV is usually spread through unprotected sex.

What are the signs and symptoms of HPV?

Different strains of HPV cause different problems. In a lot of people there are no symptoms at all and the HPV clears up by itself.

Others may experience things like warts which can appear anywhere on the body and are caused by this virus.

The most serious problem associated with HPV is the risk of cervical cancer.  Almost all women with cervical cancer have at least one of the high risk types of HPV in the cells of their cervix.

The symptoms of cervical cancer are not always obvious but some experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, sometimes between periods or after having sex. 

Others have smelly vaginal discharge and discomfort when having sex.

How is HPV normally diagnosed?

In most cases having a strain of HPV is nothing to worry about. You won't know you have it and you will not need treatment.

Usually problems associated with HPV are diagnosed when a person has a check-up such as a routine smear test. You will be offered these from the age of 25.

In other cases you may notice something wrong and the doctor will need to examine you to diagnose the problem.

One problem associated with HPV is genital warts. These are lumps on the genital area. Sometimes if left untreated they get bigger and multiply.

How is HPV normally treated?

Treatment for genital warts can include removal using a laser or chemical freezing. Treatment can get rid of any visible signs of HPV infection, such as warts, but no treatment can get rid of the virus itself.

The most serious problem with HPV – cervical cancer – will also be diagnosed through examination of your genitals. 

You may need an internal examination of your vagina. In this case you will be referred to a specialist called a gynaecologist.

The gynaecologist will do more tests including a colposcopy where the inside of your vagina is looked at using a microscope. A small pinch of tissue called a biopsy might also be taken.

Treatment for cervical cancer will depend on how far advanced your cancer is. Options can include drug treatments – such as chemotherapy – radiotherapy or surgery. 

Can HPV be prevented?

The only sure way to protect yourself from the HPV related to serious problems – such as genital warts and cervical cancer – is not to have sex or intimate contact with another person. But this is unrealistic for the majority of people.

If you do have sexual intercourse you should always use a condom to minimise risk. Using a condom can help lower your risk of genital HPV but won’t prevent it completely.

It is important to be aware that the virus can be spread through contact with the skin around the genital area, including contact with the vulva and the scrotum.

Vaccines are now available to prevent infection with types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. All girls aged 12 or 13 in the UK are offered the cervical cancer vaccine. 

When to ask for medical help

You should also visit your GP or practice nurse if you experience any of the symptoms of cervical cancer. 

Early diagnosis of cervical cancer is essential for successful treatment of the condition. 

What's going to help?

If you are offered the HPV vaccination please take it. It is provides protection against two strains of HPV thought to be responsible for most cases of cervical cancer.  

You can help catch this condition at the early stages by having regular cervical smear tests. 

Women aged 25 to 49 are invited for screening every three years, and women aged 50 to 64 are invited every five years. Make sure your GP surgery has your current contact details so that you carry on getting screening invitations.

Looking forward

Most minor problems associated with HPV can be dealt with quickly and effectively.

The best way to avoid the bigger problems is to be sensible when it comes to having sexual relationships.

For more help and information

• Visit Cancer Research UK for more information on cervical cancer.
• You can also get help and advice from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 9 February 2010

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