HPV, or human papillomavirus, is an epitheliophilic virus. Genital HPV infection is transmitted primarily through sexual contact, with sexual intercourse being the primary route of transmission. There are more than 100 types of HPV viruses, more than 30 of which are associated with reproductive tract diseases such as warts and cervical cancer. HPV is highly transmissible and most active women will become infected with HPV at some point in their lives. for most women, HPV infection is temporary, and persistent or recurrent HPV (especially high-risk) infections may cause abnormalities in cells. especially high-risk types) infection may lead to abnormal cellular changes that may continue to progress toward cancer if not detected and treated in a timely manner.