HPV

HPV often causes no symptoms, but some strains can lead to genital warts or cancers. Genital warts appear as small bumps or groups of bumps in the genital area, which can be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower. Certain high-risk strains of HPV can lead to cervical, anal, oropharyngeal, penile, vulvar, and vaginal cancers.

Transmission: HPV is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, most commonly during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus.

Prevention: The best ways to avoid HPV include getting vaccinated, using condoms during sex, and having regular cervical screenings (Pap smears) to detect any early changes in cervical cells. The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection with the most common cancer-causing strains. Engaging in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative for STIs can also reduce the risk of transmission.