How Many Types of HPV Are There?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) includes more than 100 types of viruses. Approximately 30 are sexually transmitted, but it is unlikely you would know when you were infected or by whom because there are often no symptoms. Additionally, the lack of symptoms in an infected partner does not guarantee you will not show symptoms if you are infected.

High Risk

• The 15 types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer are labeled as high-risk HPVs. These HPV infections are less likely to disappear after a few years, signaling a problem once the HPV is detected and persists through multiple tests.

Low Risk

• HPV-6 and HPV-11 are low-risk types that can cause genital warts. The warts can appear weeks or even months after you are infected.

Risk Factors

• HPV infections are more likely to occur if you have multiple sex partners. If the infection is from a high-risk type of HPV, smoking can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Detection

• An HPV test can help detect high-risk infections in women. Unlike the Pap smear, an HPV test can identify an infection before there are any cell changes in the cervix.

Prevention

• Condoms help reduce the risk of an HPV infection, but the most effective way of preventing it is to avoid genital contact. Even in long-term, monogamous relationships, either partner may be infected without knowing it.