Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. It is transmitted by skin-skin contact, vaginal, oral and/or anal sex. There are over 100 types of the HPV virus.
Two vaccines have been approved for use in young women and men. These vaccines are given in a series of 3 injections and are not interchangable. They may prevent cervical, anal, oral, vulvar, or penile cancers that are caused by the HPV 16 or 18 virus.
SomeHPV viruses may be detected in a PAP smear. This is still not a routine part of a gynecologic examination. PAP smears are recommended annually for women over the age of 21.
For more information see www.ACOG.org, www.youngwomenshealth.org, www.cdc.gov (search: HPV).