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HPV

What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

HPV is a virus. There are many types of HPV. Most types are harmless. Some types can cause cell changes in the body over many years.

Quick facts:

  • HPV is very common

  • Most people get HPV at some point

  • Most people do not know they have it

  • HPV often goes away on its own

HPV is passed on through close skin-to-skin contact, usually during sex. You do not need to have lots of partners to get HPV.

You do not need to have sex many times, or with many people, to get HPV. You can get HPV from one partner and you can pass it on without knowing you have it.

Having HPV does not mean:

  • You or your partner have done anything wrong

  • You have been unfaithful

  • You will get cancer

Most HPV infections clear on their own.

Most people with HPV have no symptoms. 

Some types of HPV can cause genital warts (small, painless bumps)

The types of HPV that can increase cancer risk do not usually cause symptoms.

The HPV vaccine protects against the main types of HPV that cause cancer.

  • Offered free on the NHS to all children aged 12-13 (in year 8)

  • Also offered to some adults

The vaccine works best when given early, before exposure, but it still gives protection later.

Ask your GP practice if you’re not sure if you’ve had it.

Vaccinating everyone helps to protect the individual, reduce the spread of HPV and lower the risk of some cancers across the population.

If your child missed or did not have their HPV vaccine at school you can contact your GP practice to book a catch up immunisation.

Screening helps find problems early, before cancer develops.

The NHS offers routine cervical screening for people with a cervix aged 25 to 64.

  • Checks for high-risk HPV

  • Looks for early cell changes

  • Helps prevent cervical cancer

For more information on cervical screening see our page here

Some types of HPV are called high-risk HPV.

Over time, high-risk HPV can increase the risk of certain cancers, including:

  • Cervical cancer

  • Anal cancer

  • Mouth and throat cancers

  • Penile cancer

  • Vulval and vaginal cancers

Most people with HPV do not get cancer.

Aside from routine cervical screening and HPV vaccination, there are some other ways to support your immune system to fight HPV:

  • Stop smoking: Smoking makes it harder for the body to clear HPV
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Eating regular meals
  • Moving your body
  • Cutting back on alcohol

Small changes can help your body fight infections:

MAKE EACH OF THESE LINKS TO THE OTHER PAGES

NHS - HPV
Eve Appeal - HPV Vaccination
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