Does HPV go away?

It is possible for HPV to go away on its own. Most cases do resolve spontaneously with no resulting health problems. When HPV does not go away, however, it can cause health problems such as genital warts, cancers of the vagina, vulva, anus or penis, and oropharyngeal cancer.

Vaccinations against HPV are now available as of 2014 and recommended for both boys and girls ages 11 or 12. Females through age 26 and males through age 21 should also be given a catch-up vaccine. The HPV vaccination is also recommended for bisexual or gay men and men living with AIDS/HIV.