HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, and it’s not the same as HIV or herpes. In fact, nearly everyone who is sexually active will come into contact with HPV at some point in their lives. However, HPV is preventable, and vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself.
HPV is a local virus, meaning it does not enter the bloodstream, but it can affect both women and men. Because the body does not always build strong protection after infection, it is possible to get infected more than once. There are over 100 types of HPV, and at least 13 are considered high-risk because they can lead to cancer.