HPV: Need to know before you scroll

You’re living your best life, scrolling, matching, and making connections. Love that for you. But let’s take a quick pause for a reality check - have you thought about HPV? Here's what you need to know, and how to protect yourself against this common STI.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) out there. According to the CDC, nearly everyone who is sexually active will get HPV at some point in their lives if they aren’t vaccinated. In the U.S. alone, around 13 million people, including teens, become infected each year. Most HPV infections don’t cause symptoms and clear up on their own within two years, but some types can lead to genital warts or even certain cancers, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers. That’s why knowing your status and taking precautions is key, especially if casual dating is part of your lifestyle.

HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, meaning you don’t even need to have full-on sex to contract it. Oral, vaginal, anal - any kind of intimate contact can pass it along. And because it’s often symptomless, people can spread it without even knowing they have it. The good news? There’s a vaccine for HPV, and it’s a game-changer.

The CDC recommends that everyone get vaccinated around age 11 or 12, as the vaccine is most effective before any exposure to the virus. However, if you didn’t get vaccinated as a preteen, don’t worry - it’s still highly effective for people up to age 26. Even if you’ve already been sexually active, the vaccine can protect against strains of HPV you haven’t encountered yet. If you’re over 26, talk to your doctor. Some people up to age 45 may still benefit from getting the vaccine, especially if they are at risk for new HPV infections.

One common misconception about the HPV vaccine is that getting immunized before becoming sexually active encourages teens to start having sex earlier. However, multiple studies have debunked this myth, showing that getting the HPV vaccine does not lead to increased sexual activity. A study published in Pediatrics found no link between HPV vaccination and higher rates of pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections, meaning that vaccinated individuals do not engage in riskier sexual behaviors compared to those who aren’t vaccinated. Similarly, Harvard Medical School has confirmed that receiving the HPV vaccine does not influence when someone becomes sexually active or how many partners they have. Instead, what the vaccine does is protect against a highly common virus that can have serious long-term health effects. Getting vaccinated is about safeguarding health, not influencing sexual choices.

While most HPV infections don’t cause symptoms, some people may develop genital warts (small, flesh-colored bumps that can appear on or around the genitals, anus, or throat). Other types of HPV can cause cellular changes that may lead to cancer over time, though there are usually no early warning signs. That’s why regular screenings, like pap smears for people with a cervix, are so important. If you notice any unusual bumps, persistent sore throats, or other changes in your body, don’t panic, but do check in with your healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment can help prevent more serious complications.

Casual dating should be fun, not stressful. The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated, use protection like condoms and dental dams (which don’t fully eliminate risk but do reduce it significantly), have open conversations with intimate partners, and stay on top of your health with regular checkups. It’s important to talk about sexual health with your partners and be aware of your and their STI testing status.

There’s a lot of unnecessary stigma around STIs, and HPV is no exception. The reality? It’s incredibly common, and having it doesn’t mean you’re reckless or irresponsible. As the CDC states, “Most sexually active men and women will get at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives.” What matters is how you handle it: By staying informed, protecting yourself, and being honest with partners when needed. If you’re scrolling, matching, and mingling, being aware of HPV is just part of being a responsible, empowered adult. So, get vaccinated if you can, practice safer sex, and remember: Taking charge of your sexual health is never a bad look.

‍