HPV Myths

  • The Myth

    Treatment of warts means that you are no longer contagious.

    The Reality

    Even after warts are treated, the virus may remain, and warts return. Since warts may return, it is not clear if treating warts reduces a person's chances of giving the virus to a sex partner.

  • The Myth

    Genital warts lead to cervical cancer.

    The Reality

    The fleshy growths known as warts are generally benign (non-cancerous). There are several types of HPV that are strongly associated with cancer. These types are 16, 18, 31, 45, and half a dozen others. These types are collectively known as "high risk" types, not because they usually or frequently cause cancer, but that when cancer does develop it can be linked back to one of these types. Genital warts are caused by "low risk" types of HPV.

  • The Myth

    Condoms prevent HPV infection.

    The Reality

    Condoms used correctly from start to finish each time may help provide protection, but only for the skin that is covered by the condom. Condoms do not cover all of the genital area, so they don't protect 100%.