What’s the tea with HPV?
WORD ON THE SHEETS
There’s no shame in having HPV (Human Papillomavirus)! There are over 100 types (with 40 of these affecting the genitals) and it is more than likely you know someone who has it. Almost everyone (around 90% of people) will have at least 1 form of genital HPV in their lifetime, and most won’t have any symptoms (be asymptomatic).
Infections usually clear in 1-2 years, but in some cases, can stay dormant in the body with symptoms reappearing in the future.
Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still pass it on to sexual partners.
Everyone who is having sex, no matter what or who that involves, is susceptible to HPV.
However, some communities are at higher risk than others: people who are immunocompromised (including people living with HIV), as well as groups who experience barriers to accessing safe and affirming healthcare, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people of colour (especially those from migrant or refugee backgrounds), LGBTQ+ people and people who live rurally and remotely.
So, let's dive into things you need to know about HPV!
The Basics
HPV affects the genitals and genital surroundings (vulva, vagina/front hole, penis, junk, etc.), anus, mouth and throat.
It’s passed on from ‘intimate skin-to-skin contact’, meaning if you have sexual contact with someone (with or without penetration) it’s possible to pass on the infection.
There’s always the chance you could pass it on during sex even when you don’t have visible symptoms, although it’s a lot less likely. You can also get HPV more than once, remember there are over 100 types out there!
Symptoms
Most people who get HPV won’t have any symptoms. But for those who do, symptoms are either classified as ‘low-risk' or ‘high-risk’. ‘Low-risk’ symptoms are more visible/noticeable and don't lead to cancer, while ‘high-risk’ symptoms are harder to detect and pre-cancerous (can turn into cancer).
Low Risk Symptoms
The most well-known symptom of HPV is genital and anal warts. Diagnosis is done visually (i.e. you will have to show a doctor or nurse). Other symptoms of HPV include:
Painful, abnormal bleeding from genitals or anus
Unusual pain, itching, skin changes or lumps around the genital or anal region
Warts can go away on their own, but if they don’t there are a few treatments available to remove them. This treatment is purely cosmetic, and HPV will remain in the body even after the warts are removed (and can even reappear), so taking precautions during sex is still very important.
The only way to completely avoid the spread of HPV with genital warts is to not have sex when they’re visible, which isn't always an option. If you do have warts and want to have sex, practicing safer sex (i.e. using condoms and lube) can help reduce the risk of transmission.
High Risk Symptoms
Most cervical cancers are caused by HPV types 16 and 18 and cause changes you can’t see and aren’t easily detected in a standard STI test.
These symptoms include the presence of abnormal, cancer-causing cells in the cervix and if caught early are more easily treatable. Cervical screening is available to catch these changes early. The guidelines have just changed!
Cervical Screening
Over 70% of cervical cancers happen in people who haven’t been screened or have missed their regular screening!
Mandatory vaccinations in schools have made the likelihood of developing cervical cancer a lot lower than it used to be, however, the best way to protect yourself and your partner is to keep up with regular cervical screening.
You are also in control of how you get screened!
Thankfully, these days cervical screening is quick and easier than ever and you can even do the swab yourself! If your results come back normal, you won’t need to do it again for several years. If you choose to do self-collection, the test will still be just as accurate as a screening done by a nurse or doctor.
You should get tested every 5 years if you:
Have ever had sex (yes even if it didn’t involve a penis and vagina)
Have a cervix (or neo-vagina)
Are between the ages of 25-74
Are pregnant
Have been vaccinated for HPV
It is recommended for to get tested every 3 years if:
You are living with HIV
Are immunocompromised
You are receiving any immunosuppressive treatment
Screening is free for most people with a cervix, for those without a Medicare card (and those not born with a cervix) there may be additional costs.
Check out CanWe for more tips on how to get ready for your screening, or healthdirects service finder to see where you can get screened.
Now What?
Detecting cancer-causing HPV earlier means it’s more easily treatable, and detecting ‘low-risk’ types can help reduce the spread to future sexual partners.
Letting partners know if you have HPV, taking precautions and getting screened are ways to take care of yourself, your lovers, and your community!
If you, a friend or partner, is overdue for a cervical screen, remember: the best way to treat cancerous strains of HPV is through early detection. So, if you want to stay cancer-free, check your records, and make sure y’all are up to date with screening – and that’s the tea!