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Health library/Human papillomavirus infection

Sexual health

Human papillomavirus infection

Also known as: Human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus infection includes many virus types with different effects. Some cause warts, while persistent high-risk infections can contribute to cancer.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Usually no symptoms
  • Genital or skin warts with some types
  • Often no warning symptoms from high-risk infection

Understanding care

Clinical care may include appropriate screening, assessment of lesions and discussion of vaccination or prevention. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Seek confidential testing for possible exposure or new symptoms; absence of symptoms does not exclude infection. Severe pelvic pain, fever or pregnancy-related concern needs prompt care.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Human papillomavirus infection — First AID health library