Human papilloma viruses is also known as the HPV virus. It is very common and affects the skin and moist membranes that line parts of the body, such as the mouth and throat, vulva, cervix, vagina and the anus.
HPV can be passed after contact with an infected person via the skin, during sex or other sexual behaviours such as oral sex and open mouth kissing. Most people will have the virus at some point in their lives and for most, HPV causes no problems and will simply go away on its own.
At the IPSA clinic you will be seen by our female doctor who has a special interest family planning and a background in gynaecological medicine.
We can offer an appointment with our doctor immediately and at a time to suit you, and your consultation will take place in a clean, quiet and confidential environment.
Our doctor will give you a full consultation to discuss your individual risk of STI and may take swabs or urine tests during the consultation.
We will discuss all possible causes of the diagnosis with you and if necessary, we may recommend further testing to pinpoint diagnosis.
If suspicion of an infection is high, we may start you and your partner on treatment immediately, prior to your results returning.
We can offer you the HPV vaccine and can take a smear test immediately. We will discuss all results with you on a one-to-one basis and we will discuss in full with you the long-term effects HPV infections and our future recommendations.
Our doctor will be available by phone to answer any further queries or concerns you have following the consultation.
Some forms of HPV can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer. This happens when the virus causes changes in the cells of your cervix or to the lining of your mouth and throat. These are known as a high-risk HPVs.
Regular cervical screening will pick up abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous.
You can use a condom to lower the risk of a cervical HPV infection, although this may not prevent it completely. There are also vaccines available that can prevent infection with the types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. Vaccines like Cervarix are now licensed in the UK and will help to prevent cervical cancer in the future.
Contact IPSA for sexual health screenings with an experienced doctor. Book a same-day appointment by phone or online now.