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HPV Specialist

Youngs ObGyn

Young Kim, MD

OBGYN located in Antioch, CA

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection, but in women, it has the potential to cause cervical cancer. Dr. Young Kim of Youngs OBGYN, in Antioch, California, is specially trained in obstetrics and gynecology to help women recognize the signs and symptoms of HPV. He provides the best possible patient care to treat serious infections or complications associated with the infection. Call or book an appointment online today to meet with Dr. Kim.

HPV Q & A

What is HPV?

Over 100 different kinds of HPV, an infection, exist. While most types of HPV are relatively harmless, it’s important to note that some varieties can cause cervical cancers. Genital HPV infections may cause cancer in the lower uterus connecting to your cervix.

HPV infections have also been linked to the following cancers:

  • Vagina
  • Vulva
  • Anus
  • Throat

What causes HPV?

When the virus enters your body, you can develop HPV. Access can be granted through cuts or tears in the skin. For this reason, most cases of HPV happen through skin-to-skin contact.

However, genital HPV is different. While it can be introduced to your body through skin-to-skin contact, it can also enter your system via vaginal and anal intercourse. You can also get HPV from oral sex, as the infection can enter the body via respiratory lesions in your throat.

Can HPV affect pregnancy?

Yes. If you’re pregnant, HPV can manifest as genital warts. During the pregnancy, the warts can grow in size or multiply. When warts become large, they may block access to the birth canal. Vaginal delivery may become complicated if this occurs. Treatment options for the warts may only become available after delivering your baby. The warts are contagious, so you need to be careful. If someone touches your warts, they can spread.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Symptoms of HPV appear most commonly as warts. Often, your body will be able to defeat the HPV infection before warts form thanks to your immune system. HPV can cause the following kinds of warts:

Genital warts

These warts are bumpy but appear as flat lesions. Women see them on their vulva, near the anus, or on the vagina or cervix.

Common warts

Rough and raised, these warts are visible on your hands, fingers, or elbows. These warts may hurt or bleed.

Plantar warts

Tough and grainy, plantar warts appear on the balls or heels of your feet. When walking or wearing shoes, they may cause pain.

Flat warts

These are flat and slightly raised lesions. They may be darker than your skin. Unlike other warts that tend to appear on a particular part of your body, flat warts can show up anywhere. Women are most likely to see them on their legs.