Human Papilloma Virus

H (uman) P(apilloma) V(irus)

Okay let’s get real comfortable with each other for a minute. This past week I have randomly had two different discussions about HPV in my social life. Incidentally both times people were very offended when I told them the facts about HPV and both times neither party knew any information about HPV. So let’s talk.

When someone says sexualy transmitted infection it sounds 𝒹𝒾𝓇𝓉𝓎 and immediately feelings of shame come into play.

𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞.

But there is absolutely no shame here and there should not be for you either.

Why?  According to Government of Canada  “HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, it is estimated that more than 70 per cent of sexually active Canadian men and women will have a sexually transmitted HPV infection at some point in their lives.”
So most of us will be exposed to it at some point in our lives. MOST.

It is a silent virus that does not show up until it causes a medical issue like pre-cancerous cells in a pap smear, oral cancer lesions or cervical cancer. So we have no way of knowing if we have been exposed. Also, these viruses can lay dormant for many years and then attack even 20-30 years later. Scary right? BUT 9/10 times those infections clear themselves. However, sometimes the infection persists and can cause cancer. It is estimated that HPV causes 95% of cervical cancer (WHO) and 70% of oropharyngeal cancers (CDC). So basically HPV can be contagious cancer.

STILL NO SHAME. Unless you and your partner have only ever been with each other you are likely to be exposed at sometime in your life.

So if shame is not the answer, what is? Vaccinate, use protection, get screened!!

What if you have already been exposed?  You probably don’t even know if you have been but there is new evidence that vaccines can stop the growth of oral and cervical cancer caused by HPV even *after* exposure. Unfortunately, this vaccine was not routinely given to anyone born before 2006. So…now what? You can still get vaccinated.  It is free for those 27 and under but us older folks have to pay for it- worth the money though. Another important factor is to get screened frequently. Early detection is seriously important for favorable treatment outcomes. Make sure to see your dentist or dental hygienist for oral cancer screenings and your GP for cervical and genital screenings.

I just started my vaccine journey with Gardasil today.

1. The bad news? It is 3 doses and it is not cheap!  It is an investment but an investment in your health.
2. The good news? It gives me peace of mind and protection from cancer causing HPV even if I have been exposed.
3. More good news? The pharmacy can give it to you without a prescription from your doctor.