4 Ways to Understand Types of HPV

1. Know the Low-Risk Types of HPV

Sexually transmitted HPV can only be transmitted through sexual contact, oral sex and mother-to-child transmission. However, most types of HPV are harmless and lead to viral-induced fatigue syndromes or warts, such as plantar, flat or common warts. Relatively benign forms of the virus can be transmitted through contact with infected objects, clothing, towels or bedding. Epstein Barr Virus and HPV-6 are associated with viral-induced fatigue syndromes, such as mononucleosis, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Lower-risk HPV types that cause external genital warts include HPV-6 and HPV-11. These types of HPV also may cause abnormal pap smears and lead to abnormal cell development within the cervix. However, they are not typically associated with cervical cancer. In all cases, you should wash your hands regularly after being in public, take sexual precautions and consult with a medical practitioner if and when concerns arise.

2. Understand High-Risk Types of HPV

Some forms of HPV are more prone to developing into cancerous conditions. HPV-16 and HPV-18 are considered high risk and can lead to abnormal pap smears and development of high-risk abnormal cell growth, which can also lead to cervical cancer. Many sexually active adults contract HPV, but most do not develop external genital warts. However, you are at higher risk for the development of abnormal cell growth and cervical cancer if you have the virus.

3. Get Pap Smears and Testing for High- and Low-Risk HPV

You should obtain a yearly pap smear and undergo HPV testing if you are sexually active. If your pap smear comes back abnormal, then the medical practitioner will recommend HPV testing. An abnormal pap smear and positive HPV test are two risk factors for cervical cancer. If you have abnormal cells, a gynecologist will typically recommend colposcopy and the removal of abnormal cells through minor surgery or cryotherapy. A follow-up procedure is recommended every 3 to 6 months. However, if your pap smear and HPV test both come back normal, your risk for cervical cancer is extremely low for up to 3 years.

4. Vaccines for HPV Types 16, 18, 6 and 11

Recent treatment guidelines have come under scrutiny with the development of vaccines that target HPV viruses. Some gynecologists now recommend upfront testing, even if a patient has a normal pap smear. Gardasil is a vaccine designed to prevent infection with types 16, 18, 6 and 11. HPV types 16 and 18 cause about 70 percent of cervical-cancer cases. As such, Gardasil and other vaccines can protect you against high-risk types of HPV and the development of cervical cancer. You should have routine testing, along with a pap smear, if you are a woman over 30 years old.