Understanding HPV: What You Really Need to Know

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is incredibly common — affecting nearly everyone who is sexually active at some point in their lives. Despite its prevalence, misinformation about HPV continues to spread. At Second Spring Women’s Clinic in [Location], we see firsthand how confusion about HPV impacts our patients' decisions around prevention and care.

Dr. Lisa Chen, OB/GYN at Second Spring, explains: “One of the biggest barriers to HPV prevention is misinformation. Patients often assume they’re not at risk or that only women need to worry.”

We’re here to clear the air with facts — not fear. With the help of our clinical team, we’ll walk you through the most common myths about HPV and share what you can do to protect your health.

What Exactly Is HPV?

HPV is a group of over 200 related viruses spread primarily through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most infections are harmless and clear up on their own, but certain strains can cause genital warts or lead to cancers of the cervix, throat, anus, and penis.

• Low-risk HPV: Can cause genital warts but rarely leads to cancer.

• High-risk HPV: Linked to various cancers, especially cervical cancer in women.

The vast majority of HPV cases resolve naturally within two years. Still, persistent high-risk infections can cause serious health issues if left undetected. That’s why regular Pap smears and HPV testing are essential for early detection and intervention.

HPV is so widespread that the World Health Organization estimates over 80% of sexually active individuals will contract it at some point. Yet despite its commonality, the stigma around HPV often prevents open discussion — both in medical settings and public discourse.

HPV is unique among STIs because many people never realize they’ve been infected. Unlike herpes or chlamydia, it often remains asymptomatic. This invisibility contributes to underestimation of its impact — and fuels the spread of myths.

Myth #1: HPV Only Affects Women

HPV affects everyone — regardless of gender. Men can carry and transmit the virus without symptoms and are at risk for HPV-related cancers, including throat and anal cancers.

“As a practitioner, I often see male partners unaware that they can be HPV carriers,” says Dr. Chen. “Vaccination and education are key for both men and women.”

Men face particular risks for oropharyngeal (throat) cancers caused by high-risk HPV strains. These types of cancers have been increasing among men in recent years. Unlike cervical cancer, which has standardized screening protocols, HPV-related throat cancers often go undetected until they reach an advanced stage.

Second Spring Women’s Clinic encourages all individuals to get vaccinated, especially before becoming sexually active. The more people vaccinated, the lower the community-wide risk.

Myth #2: Monogamy Protects You from HPV

Being in a monogamous relationship does lower your risk — but it doesn’t eliminate it. HPV can remain dormant for years, so a partner may unknowingly carry the virus even in a committed relationship.

HPV doesn’t require intercourse to spread — skin-to-skin contact is enough. That’s why routine screenings remain important even for those in long-term monogamous relationships.

In a 2022 survey conducted at Second Spring Women’s Clinic, 38% of patients diagnosed with HPV believed that their monogamous status provided full immunity from STIs. This highlights the critical need for continued education and routine sexual health evaluations, regardless of relationship status.

Fact: The HPV Vaccine Is a Powerful Preventive Tool

The HPV vaccine protects against the most dangerous strains of the virus, including those that cause 90% of cervical cancers and most genital warts. The CDC recommends starting the vaccine at ages 11–12, but it’s also available for adults up to age 45 based on medical advice.

Men benefit just as much from vaccination, especially in preventing throat and anal cancers. At Second Spring, we’ve seen the impact of early vaccination in reducing abnormal Pap results and HPV-related complications.

Dr. Chen recalls: “One patient in her twenties had already undergone two procedures to remove precancerous cervical cells. If she had received the HPV vaccine earlier, she might have avoided the emotional and physical toll.”

The vaccine is typically administered in two or three doses depending on age. It’s safe, effective, and has been proven to reduce the incidence of HPV-related disease in multiple global studies.

Myth #3: You Don’t Need Testing if You Feel Fine

Most people with HPV don’t have symptoms — which is exactly why testing matters. Cervical cancer develops silently and slowly, often over years. Regular Pap smears and co-testing with HPV screening help detect early cellular changes.

There’s currently no FDA-approved HPV test for men, but individuals at higher risk (e.g., those who engage in anal sex) should speak with their provider about screening options.

Routine screening guidelines suggest:

• Pap smear every 3 years for women ages 21–29

• HPV co-testing every 5 years for women 30–65

At Second Spring, we tailor these recommendations based on individual risk factors, such as sexual history, smoking status, and past abnormal results.

Fact: HPV Often Shows No Symptoms

HPV is sometimes called a "silent infection" because it often causes no visible symptoms. The immune system clears most cases without any treatment. But some high-risk strains can linger quietly and cause changes that evolve into cancer.

This is why we stress early detection. “You can’t manage what you don’t know,” says Dr. Chen. “Regular exams are your best defense.”

Second Spring Women’s Clinic offers integrated HPV screening with patient education, so our community knows exactly what their results mean and how to act on them.

Myth #4: HPV Always Leads to Cancer

Only a small percentage of persistent HPV infections lead to cancer. Most cases clear on their own or are managed through early intervention.

Cervical cancer, for instance, takes years to develop. Regular screening can catch precancerous changes long before cancer emerges. Men should also remain vigilant, especially if they have symptoms like persistent throat discomfort or warts.

Studies show that about 90% of HPV infections are cleared naturally by the immune system within two years. Among the remaining 10%, not all will progress to cancer — especially when regular screenings are performed.

HPV and Cervical Cancer: The Proven Connection

Nearly all cervical cancer cases are linked to high-risk HPV types. That’s why Pap smears and HPV tests are so critical. These screenings detect abnormal cells early, offering a chance to intervene before cancer develops.

We recommend starting Pap tests at age 21, with follow-ups based on your risk profile and test results. Second Spring provides full-spectrum testing and follow-up care tailored to your health history.

Our clinic uses the latest liquid-based cytology techniques, which improve the accuracy of Pap tests. When paired with HPV testing, this allows for early and precise identification of cervical abnormalities.

Myth #5: HPV Can’t Be Treated

There is no cure for the virus itself, but there are effective treatments for its symptoms and complications. Genital warts can be treated with medication or removed. Abnormal cells on the cervix can be monitored or removed before they progress.

Dr. Chen emphasizes: “Early detection changes outcomes. We help patients manage HPV with proactive care — not fear.”

Treatment strategies include:

• Topical therapies for genital warts

• Cryotherapy or LEEP procedures for abnormal cervical cells

• Watchful waiting for low-grade abnormalities in younger patients

At Second Spring, we focus on compassionate, individualized care that keeps patients informed and empowered.

Fact: Safe Sex Practices Lower Your Risk

Condoms and dental dams reduce HPV transmission but don’t eliminate it. That’s why combining barrier protection with vaccination and regular screening provides the best defense.

Limit your number of sexual partners, and have open conversations about sexual health. It’s one of the simplest ways to reduce STI risks.

Communication with your partner about past STI testing and vaccination status is crucial. Many HPV infections occur not due to recklessness, but from lack of awareness or transparency.

Myth #6: Only Older Women Need to Worry

HPV affects people of all ages. The highest rates of new HPV infections occur in teens and young adults. That’s why the vaccine is most effective when given before exposure — typically before sexual debut.

Older individuals still benefit from vaccination if they weren’t immunized earlier. And regardless of age, screenings remain vital.

We frequently see patients over 30 surprised by abnormal Pap results despite being otherwise healthy. Education is key to making informed decisions about preventive care at every age.

Fact: HPV Can Impact Fertility

Though most HPV infections don’t affect fertility, untreated cervical abnormalities or invasive treatments for cervical cancer can. If you plan to conceive, talk to your provider about your HPV history and ensure your reproductive health is closely monitored.

Second Spring Women’s Clinic offers fertility counseling for patients managing HPV or undergoing treatment for related complications.

Cervical surgeries may occasionally cause changes in cervical length, increasing the risk for preterm labor. Early planning and fertility evaluations can help mitigate these risks.

What to Do If You’ve Been Diagnosed

A positive HPV result isn’t a cause for panic. In most cases, the virus clears naturally. But staying on top of screenings and follow-up care is key.

We offer personalized guidance at every step — from managing abnormal Pap results to coordinating specialty care when needed.

Our holistic approach includes:

• Customized screening intervals

• Emotional and mental health support

• Nutritional guidance to support immune health

Your Partner in Preventive Health

At Second Spring Women’s Clinic, we go beyond checklists and statistics. Our team blends science with compassion, empowering patients to make informed choices about their health.

We invite you to visit our clinic for:

• HPV vaccinations and boosters

• Comprehensive sexual health evaluations

• Educational workshops on STI prevention

Schedule a visit with us today to talk about HPV prevention, testing, or vaccination. Let’s take care of your health — together.