What is the difference between “High-Risk” and “Low-Risk” HPV?
There are more than 100 different strains or types of HPV. Approximately 30 of these viruses are sexually transmitted, and they can infect the genital area of men and women. There are 14 HPV virus types that are called “high-risk” types. These may cause abnormal Pap tests. They may also lead to cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, or penis. There are 11 HPV virus types that are called “low-risk” type because they typically only cause mild Pap test abnormalities or genital warts. What are Genital Warts? Genital warts are single or multiple growths or bumps caused by HPV that appear in the genital area. Genital warts usually appear as soft, moist, pink, or flesh-colored swellings. They can be raised or flat, single or multiple, small or large, and sometimes cauliflower shaped. They can appear on the vulva, in or around the vagina or anus, on the cervix, and on the penis, scrotum, groin, or thigh. After sexual contact with an infected person, warts may appear within weeks or months,
