HPV: From genital warts to cancers
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a family of more than 100 viruses. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world; it is estimated that nearly 80% of sexually active people will contract at least one type of HPV during their lifetime. Most of the time, the body eliminates it on its own without causing any problems.
However, some infections can persist. To fully understand the risks, HPV must be classified into two main categories:
- Low-risk HPV: Can cause genital warts, also called condylomas.
- High-risk HPV: Is the main cause of several types of cancer, notably cancer of the cervix, anus, penis, and throat.
Fortunately, a very effective protection exists to prevent infections from the most dangerous strains: vaccination.
How is it transmitted?
HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth.
Vaccination: your best protection, accessible at the pharmacy
Vaccination is by far the most effective strategy to protect yourself against the consequences of HPV.
The Gardasil® 9 vaccine protects against the 9 most frequent HPV strains, including those responsible for the vast majority of genital warts and HPV-related cancers. It is important to understand that the vaccine is preventive, not therapeutic: it prevents future infections, but does not cure an existing one.
Is it still relevant for me?
Absolutely. Even if you are over 26 or already sexually active, vaccination remains highly recommended. It is very unlikely that you have been exposed to all the HPV strains covered by the vaccine. Getting vaccinated therefore protects you against the strains you have not yet encountered.
Your journey at the pharmacy
Our team can assess your needs, prescribe the vaccine, and administer it directly on-site. Your complete vaccination journey can be done with us, simply and quickly. To learn more about the eligibility criteria for the public program (PIQ) and insurance coverage, consult our main page on vaccination.
Focus: Condylomas (genital warts)
Condylomas are skin growths caused by low-risk HPV strains. Although they are not dangerous and do not cause cancer, they can be a significant source of stress and discomfort.
They can be treated in various ways (prescription creams, cryotherapy, etc.), but it is important to note that recurrences are frequent, even after successful treatment. The best strategy against condylomas therefore remains prevention through vaccination.
Conclusion: one vaccine, two protections
Getting vaccinated against HPV is one of the most important preventive actions you can take for your long-term sexual health. It provides a dual protection: against genital warts and, above all, against several serious cancers.
Do not hesitate to speak with one of our pharmacists to assess if vaccination is the right option for you or to find the appropriate treatment.
