Category: Lets Get Real

Let’s Get Real About HPV

What is HPV?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common group of viruses. Most sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives.

In most cases, the body clears HPV naturally without causing any problems.

However, some types of HPV can cause genital warts. Other types can cause changes in cells that may, over time, lead to cancers such as:

    • Cervical cancer

    • Anal cancer

    • Penile cancer

    • Throat (oropharyngeal) cancer

How HPV Spreads

HPV spreads through close skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.

It can be passed on through:

  • Oral sex

  • Genital-to-genital contact

  • Anal sex

  • Sharing sex toys

  • Any skin contact in the genital area

HPV does not require penetrative sex to spread.

Condoms and dental dams reduce the risk but do not eliminate it completely, as HPV can live on surrounding skin.

The most effective protection is:

  • HPV vaccination

  • Regular screening (where appropriate)

HPV can affect people of all sexual orientations and genders.

Information for People Living with HIV

Why This Matters

If you are living with HIV, your immune system may find it harder to clear HPV. This can mean:

  • HPV infections may last longer

  • There may be a higher risk of cell changes

  • There may be an increased risk of certain cancers

The good news is that screening, vaccination, and early treatment make a significant difference.

What You Can Do

  • Stay up to date with your HIV treatment and care

  • Attend all recommended screening appointments:

    • If you have a cervix, you should have annual cervical screening

    • Ensure your screening form mentions HIV

  • Ask your HIV or sexual health clinic about HPV vaccination (often available up to age 45 for eligible people)

  • Report new symptoms early, such as:

    • Bleeding after sex

    • Bleeding from the back passage

    • Unusual discharge

    • New lumps or warts

    • Persistent pain

Early action protects your long-term health.

Information for LGBTQ+ People

Why This Matters

HPV affects everyone regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

Groups who may have a higher risk of certain HPV-related cancers include:

  • Gay, bi, and other men who have sex with men

  • Women (cis and trans) who have anal sex

  • Trans women and trans men

  • Non-binary people

  • Anyone who has receptive anal sex

  • Women who have sex with women (HPV can still pass through skin contact)

HPV is about exposure, not identity.

What You Can Do

  • If you have a cervix, attend cervical screening when invited:

    • If you have not received an invitation, you can book through your GP or local sexual health clinic

  • Ask about the HPV vaccine:

    • Available to young people through schools

    • Available to many adults through sexual health clinics

  • Seek medical advice if you notice:

    • Bleeding

    • Pain

    • New lumps or warts

    • Any symptoms unusual for you

Trust your body if something feels different, get it checked.

HPV Vaccination

The HPV vaccine is safe and highly effective at protecting against the types of HPV most commonly linked to cancer and genital warts.

It:

  • Does not treat existing HPV

  • Works best before exposure

  • Still offers protection even if you are sexually active

If you are unsure whether you are eligible, speak to:

  • Your GP

  • Your local sexual health service

  • Your HIV clinic (if applicable)

Find Out More

For trusted information, visit:

If you live in the Liverpool City Region, contact your local sexual health service or HIV clinic for advice about vaccination, screening, or symptoms.

If you have urgent health concerns and cannot get an appointment quickly, call NHS 111 for advice.

A Final Message

HPV is common.
HPV is preventable.
HPV is manageable.

Talking about sexual health openly helps reduce stigma and protects our communities.

If you have questions, your local sexual health service is there to support you confidentially and without judgement.