HPV in Relationships
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses comprising over 100 different strains.1 Among these, 40 HPV strains infect genital areas, with some strains carrying a larger risk than others.1
Low-risk HPVs
Low-risk HPVs may cause no symptoms.2 About 90% of genital warts are caused by non-cancerous HPV types 6 and 11.1,2 Other HPV strains cause warts on the skin of different body areas.2
High-risk HPVs
High-risk HPV strains are associated with cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancer in women, and an increased risk of anal or penile cancer in men.1 Among these, HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for most HPV-related cancers.1
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. Approximately 80% of men and women will be infected with HPV at some point in their lifetime.3 An HPV infection is not evidence of unfaithfulness, and most sexually active couples will inevitably share HPV strains.4
It’s important to discuss HPV with your partner because it affects them too.