HPV is incredibly common, but awareness of the virus and how to reduce risk is still relatively low. This HPV Awareness Day, we’re breaking down common misconceptions, explaining the risks, and sharing practical ways to protect your sexual health with confidence.
What is HPV?
HPV (Human papillomavirus) is a group of over 200 related viruses that are extremely common and easily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex. While most infections don’t cause any problems or symptoms and clear naturally, some types of HPV can increase the risk of genital warts and certain cancers.
HPV Myths vs Facts
With so much conflicting information online, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction.
MYTH: HPV only affects women.
FACT: Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV.
MYTH: You’d know if you’ve had HPV.
FACT: Most people have no symptoms.
MYTH: You can’t protect yourself against HPV.
FACT: While nothing offers complete protection, you can get the HPV vaccine and use condoms to help.
MYTH: Condoms don’t help.
FACT: Condoms help reduce the risk of HPV transmission and are recommended as part of safer sex.
MYTH: You can only get HPV through penetrative sex
FACT: You can get HPV through any skin-to-skin contact of the genital area including vaginal, anal or oral sex as well as sharing sex toys.
How to Reduce Your Risk of HPV: Practical Tips
While HPV is common, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk such as:
- Using condoms consistently during sex
- Attending regular sexual health screenings
- Considering the HPV vaccine if you’re eligible
- Communicate openly with partners about sexual health
Although no method offers complete protection, combining these approaches significantly lowers risk.
Why Protection Still Matters
As HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, condoms don’t eliminate risk entirely. However, research shows they do help reduce transmission and are recommended as part of safer sex practices.
Protection isn’t just about preventing pregnancy, it’s also about reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and supporting your long-term health.
When to Speak to a Healthcare Professional
You should speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about HPV or:
- Notice unusual symptoms such as genital warts
- You’re due a cervical screening
- You’re unsure about your vaccination status
- You have concerns about your sexual health
- You’d like to schedule a sexual health screening after a new partner
Medical professionals can provide personalised advice and appropriate testing.
HPV in Men
HPV affects sexually active people of all genders. While cervical screening programmes exist for women, there is currently no routine HPV test for men. This is why awareness, vaccination (where eligible) and protection during sex are especially important.
Knowledge, Protection and Peace of Mind
HPV is incredibly common and in most cases doesn’t cause serious health problems. However, understanding the facts and taking simple protective steps can help you feel more confident and in control of your sexual health. Looking for protection that suits you? Explore our full range of condoms designed for comfort, confidence and safer sex here. You can also shop by size using our quick condom size quiz to find your best fit.
Sources:
https://www.askabouthpv.org/hpv-facts/what-is-hpv https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/human-papilloma-virus-hpv/
