Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a virus that is the cause of common warts of the hands and feet, as well as of lesions of the mucous membranes of the oral, anal, and genital cavities. HPV genital infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world.
Genital warts/HPV-virus is transmitted through intercourse, anal and oral sex.
The symptoms are often itchy warts on the genitals, in the mouth or in the rectum. Not all people who have contracted HPV have symptoms of infection. Many do not develop genital warts, but could still have contracted the virus, which can cause cervical cancer.
Condoms reduce the risk of infection.
A new vaccine can prevent the HPV-virus and cervical cancer. In some countries you can get it for free. In others you have to pay to get the vaccine at your doctors.
The vaccine also works after your sexual debut. With boys, the vaccine protects against genital warts and cancer in the penis, rectum and mouth.
