Natural History of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infections in Mid-Adult Women (WHIM)

Natural History of HPV Infections in Mid-Adult Women

The purpose of this study is to determine rates of oral and genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, and look at risk factors for HPV infection in healthy mid-adult women.

The investigators propose a longitudinal study of 500 women in order to determine rates and risk factors for HPV infections in 30-50 year old women. Participants will be followed for 6 months and will be asked to complete online questionnaires on their health, sexual behavior, HPV vaccinations, and cervical cancer screening. The investigators will ask participants to self-collect monthly vaginal swab samples and self-collect 2 oral swab samples. Women will also be asked to provide 2 blood samples. All swab samples will be tested for type-specific HPV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay, blood samples will be tested for HPV antibodies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• affiliated with the University of Washington (student, staff, faculty)
• willing to self-collect vaginal samples at home for HPV testing
• able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant
• have had hysterectomy
• serious medical condition which prevents completion of activities of daily living