Protect Your Health by Understanding HPV and Its Risks
When it comes to maintaining lifelong health, awareness and prevention are key. One of the most important topics every woman should be familiar with is understanding HPV and its risks. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is incredibly common, but with the right knowledge and proactive care, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, we’re committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to women in Coral Springs and the surrounding communities.
If you have questions about HPV or want to schedule a screening, call us at 954-340-1050 or book your appointment online today!
What Is HPV?
HPV, or human papillomavirus, refers to a group of more than 200 related viruses. Some types of HPV cause common skin warts, while others are sexually transmitted and can infect the genital area, mouth, and throat.
Many sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives without even knowing it, because most HPV infections cause no symptoms and go away on their own. However, certain strains of HPV can lead to more serious health problems, including:
- Cervical cancer
- Other types of genital cancers
- Throat cancer
- Genital warts
Understanding HPV and its risks is essential for taking steps to protect your health and manage your risk factors.
How Is HPV Transmitted?
HPV is primarily spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, most commonly during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It’s possible to get HPV even if years have passed since you had sexual contact with an infected person.
Because many people with HPV never develop symptoms or realize they’re infected, they can unknowingly transmit the virus to others. This is one of the reasons regular screening and open communication with your healthcare provider are so important.
Symptoms and Health Risks Associated with HPV
Most HPV infections don’t cause noticeable symptoms and resolve on their own within two years. However, when HPV lingers in the body, it can cause health problems such as:
- Genital Warts: Small bumps on the genital area caused by certain low-risk types of HPV.
- Precancerous Changes: Some high-risk strains can cause changes in the cells of the cervix and other areas, which, if left untreated, can develop into cancer.
- Cervical Cancer: Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains.
Understanding HPV and its risks means recognizing that even without symptoms, HPV can silently cause changes in the body over time.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
There are several important steps you can take to reduce your risk of HPV-related health issues:
Get Vaccinated
The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection with the most dangerous strains of HPV. It’s recommended for preteens but can be given up to age 45. Vaccination significantly reduces your risk of developing cervical and other cancers caused by HPV.
Routine Screenings
Regular Pap smears and HPV tests help detect cervical changes early, before they become serious. Pap smears look for abnormal cells in the cervix, and an HPV test checks specifically for the presence of high-risk HPV strains.
Make sure you see a doctor who offers comprehensive screenings as part of your well-woman care, making it easy to stay proactive about your health.
Practice Safe Sex
While condoms and dental dams can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they don’t offer complete protection because HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Still, using protection remains an essential part of risk reduction.
How Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology Supports Your Health
When it comes to understanding HPV and its risks, having a knowledgeable, supportive healthcare provider makes a world of difference. At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, we provide:
- Pap smears and HPV testing as part of routine wellness exams
- HPV vaccination counseling and administration
- Treatment for abnormal Pap smear results, including colposcopy and biopsy when needed
- Education and support to help you make informed decisions about your health
Our practice is proud to serve women of all ages across Coral Springs, Tamarac, Parkland, Coconut Creek, Deerfield, North Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Margate, FL. Whether you’re seeking preventive care or need help managing a specific concern, our team is here for you.
Stay Proactive About Your Health
Understanding HPV and its risks empowers you to take charge of your health. Routine screenings, vaccination, and safe practices can all help protect you from potential complications related to HPV.
If you’re due for a Pap smear, have questions about the HPV vaccine, or simply want to discuss your health goals, we invite you to schedule a visit with us at Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology. Call 954-340-1050 or book your appointment online today.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio