HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS (HPV)

Infection with human papilloma virus (HPV) is common –
as a sex worker, you will almost certainly be infected with HPV at least once or even multiple times. This applies to everyone who is sexually active, because the virus is now very widespread.

HPV infections normally go unnoticed, with your body fighting the virus itself.
But if the infection lasts a long time, some papilloma virus types can cause warts on the genitals and anus, or even increase the risk of cancer of the cervix, genitals or throat.

The key recommendations, which you may already be familiar with, are as follows:

Always use a new condom when changing positions, including for oral and anal sex.
Disinfect your sex toys.
Always use new gloves and your own lubricant.
Do not share equipment when consuming substances.
If a client has genital warts, terminate contact and refuse service.
Do you have a womb? Then take a regular cervical smear test and have yourself tested for changes of tissue.
Get vaccinated against HPV! If you have Swiss health insurance and are under 27 years of age, vaccination is free in Switzerland.