Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses which infect the genitals. HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact. Because genital HPV can infect skin around the penis, vagina, or anus, condoms reduce but do not eliminate the risk of transmission.

People with HPV often have no symptoms, but some people get visible genital warts, or have pre-cancerous changes in the cervix, vulva, anus, or penis.

For women, the best way to screen for cervical cancer is a Pap smear test. For men, genital warts can be diagnosed visually by a healthcare provider. For women, there is a vaccine available called Gardasil that prevents certain types of HPV. The vaccine is available in the UHS Allergy & Immunizations Clinic.

You can get tested for HPV and all other STIs at University Health Services. Call (512) 471-4955 to make an appointment.