I Tested Positive For HPV – Now What?
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is one of the most common STDs in America. According to the CDC, nearly everyone will get it at some point in their lives. While it is very common, it may still be a bit startling or confusing to hear you’ve tested positive. So is this worth worrying about? Let’s find out.
What is HPV?
It is a viral infection that commonly causes skin growths or warts. It can be contracted during oral, vaginal or anal sex and is typically spread by skin-to-skin contact. Most people with HPV will have no symptoms and the body’s immune system will fight off the virus within 2 years.
Because most cases are asymptomatic, it is important to get routine pap smears to test for the virus. If you test positive for HPV, your healthcare provider may recommend further care if necessary. Most commonly, a colposcopy may be performed to further assess the cervix. During the procedure a special magnifying glass is used to look closely at the cervix, your doctor may also perform a cervical biopsy at this time. Both the colposcopy and biopsy can help your healthcare provider determine the need for further treatment.
Is it true HPV leads to cervical cancer?
There are over 100 strains of HPV in total. According to the national cancer institute, there are 14 high risk strains of the virus. When a high risk strain of the virus persists for many years it can lead to cell abnormalities and eventually cancer. About 10% of women who contract HPV will develop long lasting infections that put them at a higher risk for cervical cancer. Research has found that it can take 10-20 years or more for HPV-infected cervical cells to develop into cancer.
The bottom line
It is important to get routine pap tests which can test for HPV. Doctors generally recommend pap testing every 3 years from ages 21-65. If you have a history of normal tests your doctor may recommend less frequent pap tests, about every 5 years. If you have an abnormality in your pap test, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing.
In addition to testing, you can also be vaccinated. According to the CDC, HPV vaccination can help prevent over 90% of cancers caused by HPV. Both girls and boys can be vaccinated to help protect them against it, most undergo vaccination around the age of 11-12 before coming into contact with the virus.
More questions?
Body Harmony Physical Therapy offers one pelvic health physical therapist to one patient for all evaluation and treatment sessions. Our treatments are for up to one hour in a private treatment room (not a booth). We provide individualized home programs to every patient.
We offer a quick call back option for potential patients who have questions or concerns related to physical therapy.
