Human papillomavirus (HPV) affects about 80% of all women, with most not knowing they have it. Though most cases aren’t high-risk, you should have regular screenings to rule out the possibility of any health concerns HPV can cause. At Marina OB/GYN in Marina Del Rey, Hawthorne, South Gate, Long Beach, Torrance/ Gardena, Carson & East Los Angeles, CA, the skilled medical team has the expertise and experience to provide testing and effective treatment for HPV. We understand the sensitive nature of STD’s and encourage our patient’s to discuss their conditions in an open comfortable setting and attitude. We are here to help you understand, discuss, and treat your sexual dysfuctions and sexually transmitted infections in a compassionate, very private, and understanding setting. To learn more, call or click online today to make an appointment.

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What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an extremely common virus. HPV has about 100 different types that affect the body in various places. About 30 of the viruses target the genital area, including the:

  • Vulva
  • Vagina
  • Cervix
  • Penis
  • Scrotum
  • Rectum
  • Anus

Some of the viruses lead to issues, such as genital warts. Approximately 14 of the 30 viruses fall under the high-risk category, leading to more severe health issues, such as cervical cancer.

You can have HPV without knowing it. You can also develop it years after having sex with an infected person, which — for some — can make it challenging to know when you got it and who you got it from. That’s why the Marina OB/GYN team recommends you have regular screenings.

What causes HPV?

Women and men get HPV from their sexual partner who has the virus. It’s transmitted through oral, vaginal, and anal sex. You can also contract it with genital touching.  We understand the sensitive nature of STD’s and encourage our patient’s to discuss their conditions in an open comfortable setting and attitude.  We are here to help you understand, discuss, and treat your sexual dysfuctions and sexually transmitted infections in a compassionate, very private, and understanding setting.

In addition, HPV has been known to be contracted from a cut, abrasion, or an open wound.

The best way to protect yourself against HPV from sexual contact includes using a condom during intercourse, vaccination, or choosing abstinence.

Talk to your provider about the best options of protection that work for your lifestyle.

What’s the best way to detect HPV?

The Marina OB/GYN team recommends regular Pap tests to determine if you have abnormal cells on your cervix. The test only takes a few minutes and involves your doctor performing a quick cervical swab.

What happens if I have HPV?

If you have HPV in the form of genital warts, your provider at Marina OB/GYN may recommend removing them with cryotherapy, which is also called genital wart freezing. Or, if you have an abnormal Pap smear, they can perform a procedure called a colposcopy, which allows them to examine your cervix, vulva, and vagina closely.

If your doctor sees anything suspicious, they may choose to perform a biopsy to test your cells for cancer. If you’re diagnosed with HPV, they can customize a treatment plan that’s best for you.

To learn more about HPV or schedule a screening, call the friendly office staff or book your appointment online today.