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HPV — prevention and new developments

Unfortunately there is no entirely effective way of preventing HPV aside from not having sex or sexual contact.

Using condoms may help to prevent HPV, but because they do not cover the entire genital area, and are often put on after sexual contact has begun, the virus can still be passed on, even during 'safe sex'.

Using a condom for 3 to 6 months following treatment for warts may help prevent reinfection for you and your partner, and is usually recommended as part of a treatment programme.

Risk factors, which, if avoided, may reduce your risk of getting HPV include: smoking, having multiple sexual partners and exposure to other sexually transmitted infections.

Are there any new developments in HPV prevention, diagnosis and treatment?

Researchers are working to develop two types of HPV vaccines: one which would offer protection to people who have not been infected, and another which could be used to help treat HPV and cervical cancer in people who have been infected.

In the UK, ongoing pilot studies are investigating new HPV tests that diagnose the virus when a smear test is done. (For more information, see How is HPV diagnosed.)

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Written by Tamara Beus and published in printed form by Women's Health (2002)

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