Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause various health problems, including genital warts and different types of cancer.

Despite its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions and unknown facts about HPV that people need to be aware of. Here are ten surprising truths about HPV that you must know.

1. HPV is incredibly common

HPV is so common that almost everyone who is sexually active will get it at some point in their life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 79 million Americans currently infected with HPV, and about 14 million people become newly infected each year.

2. HPV can cause many types of cancer

Most people associate HPV with cervical cancer, but it can actually cause many other types of cancer, including vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and throat cancer. In fact, HPV is responsible for over 90% of all anal and cervical cancers.

However, the good news is that most HPV-related cancers can be prevented by getting vaccinated and screened regularly.

3. HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact

HPV is usually spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, but it can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. This means that condoms and dental dams may not fully protect against HPV.

The best way to protect yourself is by getting vaccinated and having open and honest conversations with your partner(s) about your sexual health.

4. HPV can be dormant for years

People who have HPV may not experience any symptoms right away, and the virus can remain dormant for years before causing any health problems.

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This is why regular screening is so important, as it can detect HPV-related health issues before they become more serious.

5. There are over 100 different strains of HPV

Not all HPV strains are created equal. While some strains cause genital warts, others can cause cancer. There are over 100 different strains of HPV, but only a few of them are considered high-risk for cancer.

6. Men can get vaccinated against HPV

Many people assume that only women need to get vaccinated against HPV, but men can also benefit from vaccination. HPV vaccination can prevent anal, penile, and throat cancer in men.

7. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective

Despite what some anti-vaccine websites may say, the HPV vaccine is safe and effective. According to the CDC, the HPV vaccine is one of the most effective cancer-preventing vaccines available, and it has an excellent safety record.

8. HPV is not just a problem for young people

HPV is often thought of as an issue that only affects young people, but it can impact people of all ages. In fact, the incidence of HPV-related throat cancer has been increasing in middle-aged adults in recent years.

9. There is no cure for HPV, but it can be treated

There is no cure for HPV, but there are treatments available for the health problems it can cause. For example, genital warts can be removed, and abnormal cells in the cervix can be treated to prevent them from becoming cancerous.

10. Stigmatizing people with HPV is not helpful

Finally, it’s important to remember that HPV is incredibly common, and anyone can get it. Stigmatizing people with HPV or making them feel ashamed won’t help anyone.

Instead, we need to have open and honest conversations about sexual health and work together to reduce the spread of HPV.