How common is HPV?

Studies suggest that at least three out of four people will get an HPV infection during their lifetime. Sexually transmitted HPV can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Some 100 types of HPV have been identified. More than 30 types can infect the genital areas of women and men.

Like many sexually transmitted diseases, there often are no signs of genital HPV. Some types will cause visible warts. Other types are known to be a major cause of cancer of the cervix. HPV also has been linked to cancer of the anus, vulva, vagina, and penis.

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