1. Always Use a Condom
If you're not in a committed, long-term relationship, then you must always use a condom whenever you have sex. Unprotected sex is the leading cause of transmission of the human papillomavirus. Make sure your condom isn't past its expiration date, as old condoms are more likely to tear, allowing the virus access to your body. Also make sure you have sufficient lubrication when having sex to minimize the risk of your condom tearing.
2. Keep Your Numbers Down
The more sexual partners you have, the greater your chance of contracting the human papilloma virus. If you're having sex with multiple partners at a time, this also increases your risk. While there is no ideal maximum number of sexual partners over your lifetime, it's in your best interest to keep this number as low as possible. Keep to one partner at a time and be selective about who you choose as a partner and you'll reduce your risk.
3. Get the Vaccine
Beginning in 2006, a vaccine became available to prevent the transmission of the human papilloma virus. This vaccine is given to girls between the ages of nine and 26. Since human papilloma virus causes 70 percent of the cases of cervical cancer in young girls and 90 percent of the incidences of genital warts, the vaccine is a smart move for protecting yourself if you're in this age range. The human papilloma virus vaccine is given in a series of three injections over a period of six months.
4. Abstinence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Complete abstinence will prevent the spread of human papilloma virus. However, in this case, abstinence doesn't refer to sexual intercourse alone. The human papilloma virus can be spread through any kind of sexual contact, including deep kissing, oral sex, anal sex and any other activity that involves an exchange of bodily fluids.
