Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infection. More than 40 HPV types can infect the genital areas of men and women, and most people who become infected with HPV do not know they have it. Usually, the body’s immune system gets rid of the HPV infection naturally within two years. By age 50, at least 4 out of every 5 women will have been infected with HPV at one point in their lives. HPV is also very common in men, and often has no symptoms.
When the body’s immune system can’t get rid of an HPV infection, it can linger over time and turn normal cells into abnormal cells and then cancer. About 10% of women with HPV infection on their cervix will develop long-lasting HPV infections that put them at risk for cervical cancer.Regular follow-ups or screening are always recommended so changes can be detected early. For ladies, it is recommended to get your first Pap smear done at the age of 21 if you are sexually active.
