I Have HPV Now What?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 79 million Americans are infected with HPV, and 14 million people become newly infected each year. If you have recently been diagnosed with HPV, you may be feeling scared, confused, or even ashamed. However, it’s important to remember that HPV is a very treatable condition, and there are many resources available to help you cope.
1. Learn About the Condition
The first step in coping with your HPV diagnosis is to learn as much as you can about the condition. HPV is caused by a virus that is passed from one person to another during sexual contact. There are many different types of HPV, some of which can cause genital warts and others that can lead to various forms of cancer, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers.
It’s important to note that having HPV does not mean that you will develop cancer. In fact, most people who have HPV never develop any symptoms or health problems. However, if you do have HPV, it’s important to get regular check-ups and screenings to catch any potential health problems early.
2. Talk to Your Partner(s)
If you have HPV, it’s important to talk to your partner(s) about your diagnosis. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but it’s important to be honest and open about your condition. Your partner(s) may also need to get tested for HPV and/or receive the HPV vaccine to protect themselves.
It’s important to remember that having HPV does not mean that you or your partner(s) have been unfaithful or irresponsible. HPV is a very common STI, and anyone who is sexually active can get it.
3. Get Treatment and Support
While there is no cure for HPV, there are many treatments available to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of developing cancer. Your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following:
– Topical creams or ointments to treat genital warts
– Cryotherapy (freezing) to remove genital warts
– LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) to remove abnormal cells from the cervix
– Regular check-ups and screenings to monitor any potential health problems
In addition to medical treatment, it’s important to seek emotional support if you’re struggling with your diagnosis. You may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or anxious about having HPV, but remember that you’re not alone. There are many support groups and resources available to help you cope with your condition.
4. Protect Yourself and Others
If you have HPV, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and others from the virus. This includes:
– Abstaining from sexual activity until you have been treated and cleared by a healthcare provider
– Using condoms during sexual activity to reduce the risk of spreading the virus
– Getting vaccinated against HPV (if you haven’t already been vaccinated)
It’s important to remember that even if you have been treated for HPV, you can still get infected again in the future. That’s why it’s important to practice safe sex and get regular check-ups and screenings.
Conclusion
Receiving a diagnosis of HPV can be an overwhelming experience, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. HPV is a very common STI that can be managed with medical treatment and emotional support. By learning about the condition, talking to your partner(s), getting treatment and support, and taking steps to protect yourself and others, you can manage your HPV diagnosis and live a happy, healthy life.