Human papillomavirus (also called HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, it is a virus. There are more than 40 HPV types that can infect the genital areas of males and females. These HPV types can also infect the mouth and throat. Most people who become infected with HPV do not even know they have it. These are all viruses that can be passed on during sex. HPV is passed on through genital contact, most often during vaginal and anal sex. HPV may also be passed on during oral sex and genital-to-genital contact. Most people with HPV do not develop symptoms or health problems from it. In 90% of cases, the body’s immune system clears HPV naturally within two years. But there is no way to know which people who get HPV will go on to develop cancer or other health problems. There is no treatment for the virus itself, but there are treatments for the problems that HPV can cause. HPV can cause major damage if visible problems go untreated.