January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Let's Talk About HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)

Let's Talk About HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)

Today, I want to discuss HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). Here are the top five things you need to know about HPV.

😳 It is the most common STD in the United States. 60 to 70% of women have it.

😳 You can test for HPV through a pap test. It is most commonly performed for women above the age of 30, since younger women clear it easily due to a robust immune system.

😳 There are many different types of HPV, only a few strains cause cervical cancer.

😳 Once HPV enters your body, it is likely there to stay. Although not active HPV can lay dormant and become active if you are immunocompromised.

😳 Men are not typically tested for HPV. Make sure you use condoms to keep yourself safe.