Living With Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (2024)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of sexually transmitted infections that are so common that almost everyone will have this type of infection at some point. While some people never know they have it, others develop physical symptoms like genital warts.

If you've been diagnosed with the HPV virus, it can help to understand what to expect. Learn the emotional, physical, and social impacts of HPV, along with how to approach the subject with a partner—and what to do if your partner has been diagnosed with HPV.

HPV Symptoms and Diagnosis

There are more than 150 types of HPV. Some are mild and show no signs, resolving on their own within a couple of years. Others cause genital warts or abnormal cell changes that can lead to the development of cervical cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals with a cervix be screened with an HPV test between 25 and 65 years of age. This test is used to look for forms of the virus more likely to cause cancer and can be performed at the same time as a Pap test.

While HPV itself cannot be treated, its symptoms (like genital warts) and effects (such as cellular changes and even cancer) can be positively impacted with treatment. If you're living with HPV, it's helpful to understand how this may impact you and your relationships.

Emotional Impact of Living With HPV

Getting a diagnosis of HPV can take a toll emotionally. Some people withdraw socially and exhibit symptoms of anxiety and depression over their diagnosis. Yet, it’s important to remember that someone with HPV can go on to live a regular life.

Having a sexually transmitted infection can also impact you emotionally since it may affect future romantic relationships. But this doesn’t mean you won’t be able to have loving and committed relationships. It just means that you need to find a way to share that you are living with HPV with any romantic partners you have.

Physical Impact of Living With HPV

One of the most worrying concerns of an HPV diagnosis is developing cancer, and most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. The good news is that it can be prevented. Going for regular pap smears can detect abnormalities in your cervix that might be precancerous. Treating these abnormalities can also prevent cervical cancer from developing.

In many cases of HPV, your immune system will fight back and the virus will resolve on its own. This can take anywhere between a couple of months to a couple of years. As your body works to fight off the virus, you can help it along by practicing a few healthy habits.

• Eat a balanced diet to keep your immune system healthy.
• Cut out alcohol and quit smoking.
• Get enough sleep at night (at least eight to nine hours).
• Decrease stress in your life as some research shows that being stressed can cause HPV to progress, which could increase your cancer risk.

Social Impact of Living With HPV

Being diagnosed with HPV is nothing to be ashamed about. Remember: most sexually active people have been exposed to the virus at some point in their lives.

Understandably, an HPV diagnosis can cause some anxiety, so it’s crucial to find a support system to lean on. You may choose to open up about your condition to family and friends, or you could join a local support group for people living with HPV.

Sex and Relationships With HPV

If you’ve been diagnosed with HPV, you might be advised to abstain from sex for a while. Although using a condom can reduce the risk of transmission to your partner, it doesn’t eliminate it.

While it can be a difficult conversation to have, depending on your situation, your physician may advise that you inform your partner of your diagnosis. This enables them to check in with their healthcare provider to learn if the virus has been passed to them.

Having a partner who has been diagnosed with HPV doesn’t necessarily mean that they have been unfaithful to you. If the virus is transmitted to you from a partner, keep in mind that they most likely didn’t know they were living with the infection and had no intention of infecting you.

It’s essential to have open and honest conversations about your sexual health and sexual history with your partner. It’s also vital to get routinely checked for sexually transmitted infections and diseases.

Helping Others With HPV

If your partner or someone you know is having a hard time after being diagnosed with HPV, there are some things you can do to help. For instance, it's common for someone with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) to feel shame. Remind them that you are there for them emotionally and that there’s nothing to be ashamed of.

It's also common for someone with an STI to feel guilt, embarrassment, or a fear of stigma. Encourage them to open up to you about any feelings and struggles they might have about their diagnosis. If they’ve joined a support group, you could also attend meetings with them.