Final answer:
Women with HPV are at risk of developing genital warts and cervical cancer. HPV has strains that can lead to different health consequences, with some causing benign growths and others increasing the risk of cervical cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Women who have human papillomavirus (HPV) are at risk for development of genital warts and cervical cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted virus, and certain strains of it can have severe health implications. While some strains can cause benign growths like genital warts, others, particularly HPV 16 and HPV 18, are associated with a high risk of causing cervical cancer. A Pap test can be used to detect cervical changes that may indicate cervical cancer, and early detection often leads to better treatment outcomes, including the possibility of a cure through surgery. Prevention is key, and the HPV vaccine, like GARDASIL, is recommended for young females to help reduce the risk of infection with the virus and subsequent health issues.