Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Viruses are microscopic organisms that can live in the cells of our bodies and may cause disease. There are over 100 types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that affect different parts of the body. Some types of HPV cause warts, but most HPV infection is invisible. The types of HPV that affect the genital area may show up on Pap smear results.

It is important to remember that:

• HPV is a virus
• almost all abnormal Pap smear results are caused by genital HPV
• anyone who has ever had sex can have genital HPV
• four out of five people will have had HPV at some time in their lives
• in most cases, HPV clears up by itself in one to two years
• in rare cases, if the virus persists and is left undetected, it can lead to cervical cancer. This usually takes about ten years
• a Pap smear every two years can detect any abnormal cell changes caused by genital HPV. This can then be monitored and/or treated to prevent cancer
• vaccines are available which can prevent infection from the types of genital HPV responsible for causing most cases of cervical cancer.

For more information about HPV and the HPV vaccine, please see the HPV frequently asked questions or contact SA Cervix Screening Program.