1. HPV Facts and Information
Human Papillomaviruses, commonly known as HPV, are sexually-transmitted diseases. There are over
one hundred types of HPV, with most types being "low-risk" and only causing genital warts. These
warts are both treatable and removable by doctors.
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However, over thirty types of HPV are considered "high-risk". This classification marks the types that
lead to cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, and anus in femals and the penis and anus in males. Since
many carriers of HPV show no symptoms, the best way to protect against acquiring or spreading the
virus is through using latex condoms. Women can test for cancer-causing changes to the cervix by
having a Pap smear, a quick and simple in-office procedure to test cells around the cervix for
abnormalities.
A fairly new vaccination, Gardasil, is also available to help prevent several types of HPV, even some
that cause cervical cancer. Gardasil is a series of three vaccinations given over a period of six months.
Since Gardasil does not treat HPV after an individual has been infected, it is best to be vaccinated
before becoming sexually active. The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved the
vaccine for women ages 9 to 26.
The price of Gardasil is $120 per dose, totaling $360 for the complete series. Insurance providers may
or may not cover the vaccines and are subject to state laws regarding such.
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Gardasil protects against ninety percent of human papillomaviruses that cause genital warts, and it also
protects against the four main types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. Using latex condoms during
intercourse and getting the Gardasil vaccination are the best preventative methods to avoid infection of
HPV.