How to Know You Have HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common of all sexually transmitted diseases, affects both men and women. Difficult to self-diagnose because it may not cause any visual symptoms, this virus can lead to serious health complications---especially cervical cancer in women. You can take several steps to determine whether you have HPV.

Instructions

1. Check for genital warts---small bumps or papules that appear around the vulva, anus or cervix in women, or on the penis, groin or scrotum in men. If you have genital warts, you have the form of HPV that does not develop into cancer.

2. Speak to your last sexual partner to see whether he or she has experienced symptoms. This will help you diagnose the condition and eliminate other possible afflictions.

3. If you are a woman, make an appointment for a cervical cancer screening. The fact that HPV is often completely asymptomatic does not guarantee your safety; in fact, the asymptomatic strain of the virus carries the highest chance of developing into cancer. Sexually active women should receive regular tests for cervical cancer.

Tips & Warnings

• When you receive a cervical cancer screening, ask for a full Pap test to check for other possible health concerns.

References

• CDC - HPV Infection