Human papillomavirus (HPV): Spread, prevention and risks
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How HPV spreads
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in Canada and around the world. It spreads by skin-to-skin contact and is easily spread through sexual touching and during vaginal, anal or oral sex.
HPV infects the skin and mucous membrane, which is the moist, inner lining of body parts like the:
- anus
- mouth
- vagina
- rectum
It's possible to be infected by more than 1 type of HPV at a time. It's also possible to be infected again with the same HPV type you previously had.
In rare cases, some types may cause a condition where warts develop on the respiratory tract.
If you're pregnant, in very rare cases, HPV can spread from you to your baby during pregnancy or delivery.
You can spread HPV to a sexual partner even if you don't have symptoms.
Who is at risk
Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of HPV infections, regardless of their sex, gender identity or sexual orientation. People who have received an HPV vaccine are at much lower risk of HPV infections.
Preventing HPV
HPV vaccination
HPV vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself against HPV infections and the cancers that this virus can cause.
The 9vHPV vaccine is recommended as it provides protection against the greatest number of HPV types and associated diseases.
The 9vHPV vaccine provides protection against 7 high-risk HPV types, accounting for 90% of all cervical cancers. This vaccine also protects against 2 low-risk HPV types, which:
- cause about 90% of anogenital warts (relating to the anus and genitals)
- can cause a rare but serious condition where warts develop on the respiratory tract
Recommendations for vaccination
The 9vHPV vaccine is approved in Canada for individuals aged 9 to 45 years. It's best to be vaccinated at a younger age before exposure to HPV. Talk to your health care provider to find out how many doses are recommended for you.
The HPV vaccine is offered as part of routine vaccinations through school-based programs, public health clinics or catch-up programs. Provinces and territories may extend the eligibility period for publicly funded vaccines:
- until the completion of high school
- beyond high school for some adults
Every province and territory in Canada has a publicly funded HPV vaccine program. HPV vaccine is also available for private purchase for individuals who aren't included in a publicly funded HPV vaccination program. Talk to a health care provider or your local public health unit for more information.
Vaccine safety and effectiveness
HPV vaccines work very well. Studies have shown they're highly effective at preventing:
- HPV infections
- HPV-related cancers
- anogenital warts
HPV vaccines are safe. Experts from around the world have:
- been monitoring their safety since before they were first made available
- not identified any safety concerns
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Importance of vaccination
Canada aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 through improved HPV vaccination, screening and follow-up. In 2021, 81% of 14-year-old males and 86% of 14-year-old females had received at least 1 dose of HPV vaccine.
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Cervical cancer screening
Cervical cancer screening can detect pre-cancerous lesions. Getting regularly tested for cervical abnormalities can help protect against cervical cancer.
Condom use
Condoms do not eliminate the risk of HPV infections. This is because there can still be skin-to-skin contact in areas the condom doesn't cover. However, proper use of condoms and dental dams can reduce the chances of:
- getting HPV
- passing HPV to a sexual partner
Using a condom is very effective at helping to protect against many other sexually transmitted infections.
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