Understanding HPV: Testing, Prevention, and Vaccination

Protecting Your Health with Knowledge and Care

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States and worldwide. Many people don’t realize they carry the virus because it often causes no symptoms. However, certain strains of HPV can lead to serious health problems—including cervical cancer and other types of cancer.

At Aslan Health, we are committed to providing compassionate, affordable care—including testing and education about HPV and vaccination options. Here’s what you need to know:

What is HPV?

HPV refers to a group of more than 200 related viruses. Some types cause warts (including genital warts), while others are considered high-risk because they can cause cancer.

Key Facts About HPV:

  • Extremely Common: Most sexually active people will contract HPV at some point.
  • Types of HPV:
    • Low-risk types (like HPV 6 and 11) cause genital warts.
    • High-risk types (like HPV 16 and 18) can cause cancer.
  • Usually No Symptoms: Many people clear the virus naturally without knowing they were infected.

How Does HPV Spread?

HPV spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including:

  • Vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
  • Even without intercourse, HPV can be transmitted through close genital contact.

Even if neither partner shows symptoms, the virus can still be transmitted.

Health Risks from HPV

While most HPV infections go away on their own, some infections persist and can lead to:

  • Genital Warts
  • Cervical Cancer (virtually all cases are linked to HPV)
  • Other Cancers: Including throat, vulvar, vaginal, anal, and penile cancers.

HPV Testing

Who Should Get Tested?

  • Women ages 21-65: Pap smears are recommended for routine cervical cancer screening.
  • HPV Testing: Often performed alongside a Pap test for women age 30 and older or for those with abnormal Pap results.

Testing Options:

  • Pap Test (Pap Smear): Checks for abnormal cells on the cervix that could develop into cancer.
  • HPV DNA Test: Detects high-risk HPV strains that could lead to cancer.

What About Men?

Currently, there is no FDA-approved HPV screening test for men. However, men should be aware of symptoms like genital warts or unusual lesions and seek care if they arise.

HPV Vaccination

About the HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9):

  • Protects Against: Nine HPV strains linked to cancer and genital warts.
  • Highly Effective: Works best before exposure to HPV.
  • Safe: Widely studied and shown to be both safe and effective.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

  • Preteens (Ages 9-12): Ideal age for vaccination.
  • Teens & Young Adults (Up to Age 26): Catch-up vaccination available.
  • Adults Ages 27-45: Vaccination may still be beneficial after a discussion with a healthcare provider.

Vaccination Schedule:

  • 2 Doses: For those starting the series between ages 9-14 (6-12 months apart).
  • 3 Doses: For those starting at age 15 or older, or with certain health conditions.

Common Myths About HPV

  1. Myth: Only women need to worry about HPV.
    Fact: HPV can affect all genders and cause cancer in both men and women.
  2. Myth: HPV only causes cervical cancer.
    Fact: HPV can cause multiple cancers, including throat, anal, and penile cancers.
  3. Myth: If you’re already sexually active, the vaccine won’t help.
    Fact: The vaccine can still protect against strains you haven’t yet encountered.

How Aslan Health Can Help

We offer affordable, judgment-free HPV services, including:

  • Pap Smear and HPV Testing: $65 for the test, plus $75 for the office visit.
  • Cervical Cancer Screening and Preventive Care
  • Education on HPV, Risks, and Vaccination
  • Referrals for HPV Vaccinations (We’ll help you find local vaccination services if needed)

We are here to walk with you through every step of your healthcare journey with compassionate, Christ-centered care.

Take Control of Your Health Today

By getting screened and learning about your options, you can protect yourself from many HPV-related health risks.

Make your appointment at Aslan Health:
📞 Call: 320-297-6800
🌐 Visit: aslanclinic.com

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