There is no shame around HPV. At least, there shouldn’t be.
Yet many women who have HPV feel shameful about it and are worried about sharing the information with future partners, at the risk of being judged.
You’re not alone.
HPV is Growing
HPV is now considered to be the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. It can be transmitted through any skin-on-skin contact with the affected area, including oral and anal sex, as well as intimate touching.
There are over 100 different strains of HPV identified, but most do not carry a significant risk. Only a few high-risk strains have a small possibility to cause cancers.
HPV 16 and 18 are the high-risk strains that cause 70% of cervical cancers. This risk is the reason why routine gynecological exams are recommended. Cervical cancer progression is preventable if caught early enough and appropriate measures are taken.
The Social Stigma Around HPV
In a survey of over 2,000 women, there was a wide range of stigmas associated with HPV, including shame, fear, and promiscuity. Almost 40% of the surveyed women were worried about what others may think of them if they had known of their HPV diagnosis.
Marcia Cross, an actress most known for her role on Desperate Housewives appeared publicly on television to end the shame surrounding HPV. She was diagnosed with anal cancer, likely as a result of HPV transmission from her husband’s throat cancer, caused by the same strain of HPV.
On an episode of CBS This Morning, she said:
“I know that there are people who are ashamed, you have cancer. Should you then also feel ashamed like you did something bad because it took up residence in your anus?”
Marcia Cross and many other celebrities and high-profile individuals are coming out to the public about their HPV diagnosis. There should be no shame attached to any medical conditions that result from HPV. The stigma associated with HPV prevents people from seeking out attention from their healthcare providers or friends and family because of the fear of judgment.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
What can you do naturally?
There are options. Most HPV infections are cleared by a strong, healthy immune system. You will most likely clear the infection and any symptoms with a robust immune system. And your immune system can be naturally well supported in a number of evidence-based ways:
- Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Quit smoking
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Drink green tea
- Exercise to sweat
In addition, Papillex is a clinically-researched, nutrient-rich supplement designed to increase your body’s ability to respond to HPV naturally. By optimizing your natural immunity and replacing missing and low nutrients, Papillex™ helps you create an environment inhospitable to HPV and its common symptoms, such as cervical dysplasia and genital warts.
