The Basics of Human Papillomavirus

A solo obstetrics and gynecology practitioner in New York, Dr. Joshua Sullum provides attentive care to women seeking prenatal services and assistance with sexually transmitted diseases. Dr. Joshua Sullum’s private office offers testing and treatment for human papillomavirus (HPV), one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the country.
HPV belongs to a group of more than 150 related viruses, each of which receives a number to categorize its type. The virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact with genital areas, such as intercourse and other forms of sexual conduct. Any portion of exposed genital skin can lead to potential spread, making condoms an ineffective method for preventing it. Furthermore, the rate of exposure increases with the number of sexual partners, and symptoms can manifest years after contact with an infected person.
While HPV clears up on its own in most cases, it can lead to multiple health complications that range in severity. Complications may include genital warts, cervical pre-cancer, and cancer of the vagina, vulva, cervix, and other genital areas. However, regular testing can detect signs of HPV and cervical abnormalities in women before cancer and other serious health complications develop.
