It can take many years for the HPV virus to become active, and when it does, it usually only lasts a short time. In most cases, the infection is cleared by the body in around 1-2 years.
Do you have HPV for life?
Certain types of HPV have the potential to cause cancer if not treated, which can take 10–15 years after infection. Most women clear the HPV infection without any treatment, and before any cancer develops.
Sources & Citations
1. Queensland Government Department of Health. Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Available at: http://conditions.health.qld.gov.au/HealthCondition/condition/14/217/80/human-papillomavirus-hpv (accessed 14 December 2021).
MAT-AU-2102490 Date of preparation March 2022
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