References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral infections in the world. Most sexually active adults will catch at least one type during their lifetime. The vast majority of infections clear naturally within 1-2 years. A small number of persistent infections with high-risk types can cause cell changes that, if untreated, may lead to cancer.
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Key Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Types | Over 100, about 40 affect genitals |
| Low-risk types | Cause genital warts (types 6, 11) |
| High-risk types | Can cause cancer (types 16, 18 most important) |
| Transmission | Skin-to-skin contact, sexual contact |
| Vaccine | Yes — highly effective |
| Natural clearance | Most infections clear within 1-2 years |
HPV and Cancer
- Cervical cancer — main cause
- Anal cancer
- Throat cancer
- Penile, vulval and vaginal cancer
- Screening catches pre-cancer changes early
Prevention
- HPV vaccine — routine in UK schools
- Condoms — reduce but don’t eliminate risk
- Regular cervical screening
- Not smoking — reduces cancer risk
Symptoms
- Most HPV infections have no symptoms
- Low-risk types may cause genital warts
- High-risk types cause no immediate symptoms
Read more: HPV guide | Can HPV clear? | Preventing HPV
Frequently Asked Questions
Does HPV always cause cancer?
No — most infections clear naturally.
Can men get HPV?
Yes — and can develop warts, throat and anal cancers.
Is the vaccine effective?
Yes — prevents the most harmful types.
Related reading
- Can You Clear HPV Once You Have It?
- How to Prevent HPV
- What Is a Female (Internal) Condom?
- What Is a Shigella Infection?
- What Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
