Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of sexually transmitted viruses that can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. HPV is the most commonly transmitted STI—about 14 million Americans get it each year. Almost all sexually active individuals will contract it at some point in their lives.

Most HPV infections go away on their own and never cause symptoms, but in some cases HPV can cause genital warts or pre-cancerous cells in the cervix, vulva, anus, penis, or throat. HPV infections account for almost all cases of cervical cancer and about two thirds of all cases of penile cancer.

Prevention and Treatment

If you are sexually active, most HPV infections can be prevented by using condoms and dental dams correctly and consistently. However, because HPV can also infect unprotected skin around the penis, vagina, or anus, condoms cannot completely eliminate the risk of transmission.

You can also get vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccine, Gardasil, is covered by most insurance plans.

Courtesy of University Health Services, The University of Texas at Austin.
Published by the University of Texas at Austin University Health Services.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
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