If you’ve been diagnosed with the HPV virus, it can help to understand what to expect.
Others cause genital warts or abnormal cell changes that can lead to the development of cervical cancer.
Emotional Impact of Living With HPV
Getting a diagnosis of HPV can take a toll emotionally.
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Some people withdraw socially and exhibitsymptoms of anxiety and depressionover their diagnosis.
Yet, its important to remember that someone with HPV can go on to live a regular life.
Having a sexually transmitted infection can also impact you emotionally since it may affect future romantic relationships.
But this doesnt mean you wont be able to haveloving and committed relationships.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Going for regular pap smears can detect abnormalities in your cervix that might be precancerous.
Treating these abnormalities can also prevent cervical cancer from developing.
This can take anywhere between a couple of months to a couple of years.
Social Impact of Living With HPV
Being diagnosed with HPV is nothing to be ashamed about.
Remember: most sexually active people have been exposed to the virus at some point in their lives.
Understandably, an HPV diagnosis can cause some anxiety, so its crucial tofind a support systemto lean on.
it’s possible for you to also reach out to theNational HPV Vaccination RoundtableorHPVandMefor additional support.
Although using a condom can reduce the risk of transmission to your partner, it doesnt eliminate it.
Having a partner who has been diagnosed with HPV doesnt necessarily mean that they havebeen unfaithful to you.
Its essential to haveopen and honest conversationsabout your sexual health and sexual history with your partner.
Its also vital to get routinely checked for sexually transmitted infections and diseases.
If theyve joined a support group, you could also attend meetings with them.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.HPV infection.
American Cancer Society.HPV and HPV testing.
World Health Organization.Cervical cancer.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.HPV fact sheet.
2016;92(3):206-10. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2014-051982
