Human papilloma virus - HPV

What is HPV?

HPV is the short name for the Human Papilloma Virus - the virus that causes warts. There are many different types of HPV. Some of them are sexually transmitted. Some can cause genital warts (often referred to as low risk HPV) while others are termed high risk as they can cause cervical cancer. Warts can grow on the penis, anus or vagina (both inside and outside).

How do I catch it?

HPV is passed on through direct contact with warts or skin that is infected, so you can catch HPV by having oral, anal or vaginal sex with a person who carries the virus. About 50% of people infected with HPV never develop genital warts, but can still pass on the virus. Wearing condoms will not guarantee protection against HPV.

How do I find out if I have HPV?

There is no special test for HPV but a clinician can tell if you have genital warts by examining you. The HPV virus may also show up in a Pap smear test. See the Pap smear factsheet to find out more.

If your Pap test shows that HPV has caused changes to your cervix, you may have to go to a specialist for treatment. For more information call FPA Healthline on 1300 658 886 to talk to a reproductive and sexual health nurse. Talking to the nurse is confidential and anonymous.

Vaccination

A vaccine against some types of HPV is now available. For more information call FP NSW Healthline on 1300 658 886

If I go to a clinic will they tell my parents?

According to the law you can ask for and agree to medical care for yourself once you are 16 years old. At the sexual health clinic the information you give the staff is completely confidential. It cannot be shared with your parents or people you know, unless the law requires staff to do so.  An example of this would be if health staff thought you were at risk of serious harm. In this case the clinic is required to report this to DOCS (Department of Community Services). Another example might be if your files were required in a Court case. If you are between 14 and 16 you may still be able to agree to your own medical care, but this can vary in individual cases. 

For more information on STIs and having a sexual health check-up, call FP NSW Healthline on 1300 658 886, or visit Family Planning NSW at www.fpahealth.org.au.

 

Acknowledgements
Thanks to Family Planning NSW for preparing this factsheet.