QUESTION
I have HPV. I’m very depressed about this and haven’t had sex for months because of my condition. I am too embarrassed to tell my partners, so I often just break up with them once sex comes into play. I’m tired of this. What can I do?

ANSWER
HPV (human papilloma virus) is more common than you may realize. In fact, over 70% of sexually active adults have had HPV. Many people have it and don't even know it because the infection usually has no symptoms. There are over 100 types of HPV. Some types are associated with cervical and anal cancer.

The good news is that a new shot was just approved by the FDA to prevent warts and cancer from HPV in women. The shot has been approved for young women ages 9-26, and is currently being tested in young men. Because HPV is so common, it is an ideal shot for folks who have not yet been exposed through sex. For up-to-date information about the shot, click here.

It is important for you to know as much as you can about HPV, including how not to spread it. This will help you feel more confident when discussing it with future sex partners. The good news is that condoms work -- they can help prevent the spread of HPV. Click here for more details about the virus. You can also find tips for talking to your partners about STDs on the City Clinic website.

To your health,
Dr. K