The medical abbreviation HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. There are many different types of HPV, and some types can cause genital warts, while others can cause cancers of the cervix, anus, penis, or throat.
HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, and many people who are infected with HPV do not experience any symptoms. Regular cervical cancer screening is recommended for women, as HPV infection is a major risk factor for cervical cancer.
Prevention of HPV infection includes vaccination, which is recommended for both boys and girls before they become sexually active. Condom use can also reduce the risk of HPV transmission, although it does not provide complete protection. Treatment for HPV infection may involve the removal of genital warts or close monitoring for abnormal cell changes in the cervix.