Hpv refers to human papillomavirus and this virus can be transmitted through direct contact with the infected area or through sexual contact with an infected person. In many cases no symptoms associated with this condition may be observed. This virus causes warts including genital warts in some cases while in other cases it can result in other problems like cancer. In recent times an hpv vaccine has been developed and this can provide protection to women.

Statistics indicate that around 1% of individuals who are sexually active in America tend to get genital warts at some point of time. There are around 40 different kinds of hpv viruses and these can result in warts in areas near the vagina, anus, penis and the rectum. The hpv vaccine has been developed for women and this can be given to women before they choose to become sexually active.

The hpv vaccine can benefit those women who are already sexually active but such women may derive relatively less benefit. The vaccine however cannot be used with pregnant women. Even though present studies indicate that the vaccine does not cause harm to pregnant women and their baby further research on this issue is needed.

The hpv vaccine has been tested on girls between the age group of 9 and 26 years. It is not yet known if the vaccine is equally effective on boys or men. Vaccinating men can help in preventing genital warts along with penile and anal cancer in some cases. The vaccine is primarily created to target hpv types that result in cervical cancer along with genital warts.

The vaccine may be less effective among those women who are exposed to some form of hpv. This is because the vaccine cannot treat any existing hpv infections. The hpv vaccine has been approved by CDC and licensed by FDA. No serious side effects from the vaccine have been observed. Currently there are two vaccines that are available in the market.