What is HPV?

Spire Roding Hospital's Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr Farida Bano, explains Human papilloma virus (HPV) and shares some important information on the virus. 

• Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the name for a group of viruses that affect the skin and the moist membranes lining the body. e.g. cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, mouth and throat.

• Types of HPV that can cause abnormalities of cervix are most commonly passed through sexual contact.

• 4 out of 5 (80%) people will be infected with genital HPV at some time during their lives.

• High risk HPV infection can cause changes to the cells of the cervix causing abnormalities. Once these abnormalities become severe they can develop into cancer.

• High risk HPV does not have any symptoms; most people do not even know they have it.

• There is no treatment for high risk HPV as the body’s immune system will usually clear the infection.

• Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr Farida Bano has Private Clinics at Spire Roding Hospital on Tuesday mornings, Wednesday evenings, Friday mornings and alternative Saturday afternoons.

Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr Farida Bano has Private Clinics at Spire Roding Hospital on Tuesday mornings, Wednesday evenings, Friday mornings and alternative Saturday afternoons.

To book an appointment call our private patient team on 020 8709 7817