Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

What Is It?

Most experts agree that almost every sexually active man and woman will contract HPV at some point in their lives, but few will ever know that they have it. HPV is almost always asymptomatic, but those who have been infected may develop genital warts.

Is It Serious?

Studies have linked HPV with an increased risk of cervical cancer, as well as a potential link to some oral cancers, but these developments are rare. Younger women are at greater risk of developing the associated cancers than women who contract HPV over the age of 40.

What Do I Do?

For those under the age of 26, the CDC strongly recommends an HPV vaccine, but for those who are already infected or over the age of 26, the disease typically clears itself from the body within 2 years without treatment.

Syphilis

What Is It?

Another bacterial STD, syphilis will likely manifest itself in a rash on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet, as well as a canker, or painless sore, on or near your genitals, anus or mouth. If left untreated, the rash will spread to the torso, where large gray or white lesions may appear in your groin area or underarms. These symptoms will take between 10 and 90 days to develop.