HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is the most common STD in the United States. In fact, more than 80% of women will contract it at some point in their lives, and more than 79 million Americans have or have had HPV. 

Because most people with HPV don’t develop symptoms, many people do not know they have it and therefore spread it to others. It is contracted through skin-to-skin contact, usually through sexual intercourse. 

Although many people don’t develop symptoms, that does not mean that HPV is harmless. The virus can lead to bigger complications, such as cervical cancer and genital warts. 

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

how to find if you have hpv

If you are sexually active, you should absolutely be tested for HPV.  And there are three ways to be tested and find out if you have HPV: Microscopic examination during a Pap Smear, DNA testing, or through a colposcopy, i.e., a light detection of HPV cells on the cervix. None of the tests are surgical and are all available at your next appointment. 

By finding out if you have HPV, you can be careful not to spread the virus, as well as plan a treatment plan with Dr. Kim to ensure you don’t develop any further complications. 

treatment for HPV

Currently, there is no cure for HPV, but that doesn’t mean there is no treatment plan.  

In some cases, nothing needs to be done. However, if you develop genital warts, they can either be removed or treated with a topical cream, and if you develop cervical cancer cells, Dr. Kim can remove them by scraping the inside of the cervix. 

If you have any questions about HPV, make sure to ask at your next gynecological exam!