HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States with over 79 million Americans affected by it [1]. Almost all cervical cancer cases are caused by infection with high-risk types of HPV, but it’s important to remember that most people with HPV don’t develop cervical cancer.
Routine checkups are essential to ensuring you and your partner remain happy and healthy; it’s also one of the best ways to avoid the health problems associated with HPV.
See also: What Is HPV? A Guide To The Human Papillomavirus
How can I prevent contracting HPV?
HPV is so common that most people will be infected with a form of it in their lifetime [2]. As it’s spread through sexual contact there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of catching HPV if you are sexually active, these include:
- Use condoms correctly every time you have sex
- Get the HPV vaccine
See also: How Do You Get HPV? Everything You Need To Know
How do I know if I have HPV?
As HPV is known to show little to no symptoms, those with HPV can go a long time without realising they actually have it. This is why the most reliable way to detect the virus is with a test.
Although HPV tests don’t detect your ‘HPV status’, they do look to see if you might be at greater risk of developing cervical cancer in the future by detecting high-risk strains of HPV that are associated with the development of cervical cancer in women.
You should consider taking a test if:
- You are over the age of 21
- You have had skin to skin contact with someone who is carrying the HPV virus
- You have had unprotected sex
- Your mother carried the HPV virus during your birth
- You have not received a HPV vaccine
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the health problems associated with HPV is by screening for HPV. This can be done by taking a visit to your doctor’s office or from the comfort of your own home with an at-home lab test.
LetsGetChecked’s at-home HPV Test detects strains that are considered high-risk for developing cervical cancer. Online results will be available within 5-7 days and our dedicated medical team will be available every step of the way to answer any questions you may have.
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