Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.

Mental Health

Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.

Public health

Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.

Reproductive Health

For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.

Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

samedi 19 octobre 2019

20 Saturday Night Live Hosts Who Just Couldn't Keep Their Sh*t Together

Hosting Saturday Night Live is a challenge, which is maybe why there are so many instances of SNL hosts breaking character. Over the decades, a who's who of Hollywood actors, music stars, and comedy legends have hosted the sketch comedy show and participated in the skits. Coming up against the masterful comedy of the show's cast is often too much for these hosts to handle, as they break character and get the giggles because of their costars' antics. If we're being honest, it's even funnier when they can't keep a straight face - they're just like the rest of us! If your day could use some hearty laughs, keep reading for 20 of the funniest moments of SNL hosts breaking character over the years.

Stumped On What to Gift Your Favorite 20-Something? Here Are 32 Genius Ideas

Trust us - the 20-somethings in your life have big holiday wish lists, and we're here to make sure you check off everything. OK, maybe not everything, but at least some of the fashion items they've been lusting over on their favorite sites are easily giftable. What do fashion-lovers want for the holidays? Well, they want the top trending items, and that's why we're here to help.

These 32 items were made for the serious fashion fan in your life. The one you go to for style advice and guidance will love knowing that you thought about them and what they actually like. We promise you that when they open up the adorable Moschino Champagne bag, they'll be just as delighted as they will be to find a rainbow set of hoops. The cool Gucci sneakers or fuzzy coat are items we also encourage you to check out. Someone giddy with happiness awaits you.

20 Cropped Sweaters That Are Perfect Picks No Matter the Weather

No matter what time of year it is, we're always down for a cropped sweater; the silhouette is flattering and it's so easy to pair with jeans, skirts, pants, and even shorts. Whether you're looking for the perfect pairing for a high-waisted bottom or just want to show a little skin, you've got to pick up this season's cutest options. We like styling cropped sweaters with jeans for a flattering yet comfortable look, and we also like tucking them into skirts. That way, you look polished but still feel cozy.

These 20 cropped sweaters would all feel right at home in your closet. From classic neutral styles to cute patterns and fun colors, there are so many great picks to choose from, the hardest part will be picking a favorite! We're particularly into all the cardigans and turtlenecks. Just keep reading to shop our picks!

All I Want to Do Is Eat Dumplings While Wearing These Heated Dumpling Slippers

My idea of a perfect night involves coziness and dumplings, so I think I've just found my match: heated dumpling slippers from Urban Outfitters. The Smoko Heated Slippers ($35) are already warm thanks to the fleece, but they heat up when plugged into a USB port and will keep you toasty. If these sound familiar to you, you might be remembering Urban Outfitters' heated corgi slippers - the "dumpling" option is a new version of the same popular product!

Not only are these cute enough to keep displayed in your room, but they also make a great white elephant gift for a friend. My feet are freezing nine times out of 10, so excuse me while I go place a delivery order for soup dumplings and a pair or two of these. See more photos of the smiling dumpling slippers and shop them ahead.

The Mrs. Doubtfire Musical Gets a Full Cast and Sets Broadway Premiere For March 2020

Mrs. Doubtfire is (finally) headed to Broadway! The musical adaptation of the classic 1993 film has been in the "early stages" since 2015 - which is when we first heard about the project - but after s Seattle-run that starts this November, Mrs. Doubtfire will begin performances at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre on March 9, 2020, and officially open to the public on April 5.

This announcement has been a long time coming. Back in 2015, Alan Menken revealed to Entertainment Weekly that he was composing music with David Zippel writing the lyrics and Broadway veteran Harvey Fierstein writing the book. A year after that, the Oscar-winning composer told Digital Spy that a change of lyricist and convoluted schedules led to the project being put on a "creative hiatus."

It wasn't until August 2018 that the creative team behind the musical adaption was officially brought together. Fox Stage Productions and producer Kevin McCollum announced the news in a joint statement, saying, "Mrs. Doubtfire is such a beloved story, both laugh-out-loud hilarious and extremely moving. Getting this team together and crafting Mrs. Doubtfire for the stage has been pure joy. We can't wait to get into production."

Four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks serves as the musical's director with a book from Something Rotten!'s John O'Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick. Despite Menken's earlier involvement, Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick handled music and lyrics with choreography from Lorin Latarro, and music supervision by Ethan Popp. The production's cast contains a few familiar faces for musical lovers, including Beetlejuice's Rob McClure as Daniel Hillard, Jenn Gambatese as Miranda Hillard, Brad Oscar as Frank Hillard, Analise Scarpaci as Lydia Hillard, Jake Ryan Flynn as Christopher Hillard, Avery Sell as Natalie Hillard, and Mark Evans as Stuart Dunmeyer. We can't wait to see what they come up with!

Only People With Nerves of Steel Will Be Able to Watch Every Horror Movie on This List

If your idea of a horror movie is a tense, psychological thriller, then we suggest you stop reading, because we're here to discuss the scariest, goriest, most in-your-face horror movies currently streaming on Netflix. From blood-soaked slashers to horror anthology movies that might scar you for life, we combed through all the scary movies Netflix has to offer to unearth the best and the bloodiest.

All I Want to Do Is Eat Dumplings While Wearing These Heated Dumpling Slippers

My idea of a perfect night involves coziness and dumplings, so I think I've just found my match: heated dumpling slippers from Urban Outfitters. The Smoko Heated Slippers ($35) are already warm thanks to the fleece, but they heat up when plugged into a USB port and will keep you toasty. If these sound familiar to you, you might be remembering Urban Outfitters' heated corgi slippers - the "dumpling" option is a new version of the same popular product!

Not only are these cute enough to keep displayed in your room, but they also make a great white elephant gift for a friend. My feet are freezing nine times out of 10, so excuse me while I go place a delivery order for soup dumplings and a pair or two of these. See more photos of the smiling dumpling slippers and shop them ahead.

vendredi 18 octobre 2019

70+ DIY Stranger Things Costumes That Will Knock You Upside Down

Stranger Things has become a cultural obsession, especially after the wild finale in season three, which is why it's the perfect time to dress as your favorite character this Halloween. If you haven't noticed, the show has the perfect combination of '80s nostalgia, science fiction, and witty kids that make for some killer costume ideas. If you're as huge of a fan as we are, you'll love these Stranger Things costumes that embrace every character's weird quirks. Take a look at the best DIY options ahead. These are so good, they'll be able to stop any Demogorgon in its tracks.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

25 Times Stevie Was Actually the Star of Schitt's Creek (Sorry, Moira)

Among the colorful characters on Schitt's Creek, there's no doubt that Stevie is the most relatable. With her deadpan humor and enough sarcasm to go toe to toe with the Roses, Stevie brings a dose of reality to the wackiness of the show. While we might not always be able to relate to Moira's heightened dramatics or David's fussiness, we can pretty much always relate to Stevie's dry sense of reality. Don't believe us? We've assembled some of Stevie's most memorable moments, expressions, and quotes from the past five seasons. While you wait for the sixth (and final!) season to debut, scroll through the gallery ahead to see all the reasons Stevie is such an important member of the Schitt's Creek family!

25 Times Stevie Was Actually the Star of Schitt's Creek (Sorry, Moira)

Among the colorful characters on Schitt's Creek, there's no doubt that Stevie is the most relatable. With her deadpan humor and enough sarcasm to go toe to toe with the Roses, Stevie brings a dose of reality to the wackiness of the show. While we might not always be able to relate to Moira's heightened dramatics or David's fussiness, we can pretty much always relate to Stevie's dry sense of reality. Don't believe us? We've assembled some of Stevie's most memorable moments, expressions, and quotes from the past five seasons. While you wait for the sixth (and final!) season to debut, scroll through the gallery ahead to see all the reasons Stevie is such an important member of the Schitt's Creek family!

These Under-$25 Multitasking Beauty Products Save You Both Time and Money

Multitaskers: they're quick, convenient, and the best products for when you're trying to create a backseat beauty beat. (You know, a beauty look you put together in the back of your Uber.) Purchasing one of these multitasking beauty products will streamline your routine, helping you get ready in as little as five minutes.

Whether you're looking for lipsticks that double as subtle blushes or hardworking SPF products disguised as face and body makeup, you'll find it on this list. There is even a wand that contains three essentials for your fiercest brows ever.

The best part about each one of these picks is that they are all under $25. Edit your beauty stash with these affordable multitasking beauty products ahead.

70+ DIY Stranger Things Costumes That Will Knock You Upside Down

Stranger Things has become a cultural obsession, especially after the wild finale in season three, which is why it's the perfect time to dress as your favorite character this Halloween. If you haven't noticed, the show has the perfect combination of '80s nostalgia, science fiction, and witty kids that make for some killer costume ideas. If you're as huge of a fan as we are, you'll love these Stranger Things costumes that embrace every character's weird quirks. Take a look at the best DIY options ahead. These are so good, they'll be able to stop any Demogorgon in its tracks.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

70+ DIY Stranger Things Costumes That Will Knock You Upside Down

Stranger Things has become a cultural obsession, especially after the wild finale in season three, which is why it's the perfect time to dress as your favorite character this Halloween. If you haven't noticed, the show has the perfect combination of '80s nostalgia, science fiction, and witty kids that make for some killer costume ideas. If you're as huge of a fan as we are, you'll love these Stranger Things costumes that embrace every character's weird quirks. Take a look at the best DIY options ahead. These are so good, they'll be able to stop any Demogorgon in its tracks.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

These Under-$25 Multitasking Beauty Products Save You Both Time and Money

Multitaskers: they're quick, convenient, and the best products for when you're trying to create a backseat beauty beat. (You know, a beauty look you put together in the back of your Uber.) Purchasing one of these multitasking beauty products will streamline your routine, helping you get ready in as little as five minutes.

Whether you're looking for lipsticks that double as subtle blushes or hardworking SPF products disguised as face and body makeup, you'll find it on this list. There is even a wand that contains three essentials for your fiercest brows ever.

The best part about each one of these picks is that they are all under $25. Edit your beauty stash with these affordable multitasking beauty products ahead.

The Kardashian-Jenners Have Set This Year's Biggest Nail Art Trends With These Looks

This year, some of the most distinct and memorable nail art trends were born . . . many of them thanks to the Kardashian-Jenner family.

Sisters Kylie, Khloé, Kendall, Kourtney, and Kim have all been seen with a handful of eye-catching nail looks, courtesy of some of the best manicurists in the game. The masterminds behind these designs include Chaun Legend, who is both Kylie and Khloé's go-to as of late, Kim Truong, who does Kourtney's nails, and the artists at Modern Pamper Salon, an LA-based salon that all of five sisters frequent.

Looking for inspiration on a nail art design to try yourself? Check out some of the Kardashian-Jenner's best looks this year, ahead.

This Gorgeous Halloween Wedding Was Inspired by Disney's Haunted Mansion!

Teresa and Peter have shared a love for all things Disney ever since they met. But they didn't want their families to have to travel across the country from New York for their wedding, so they did the next best thing and brought Disney to them. The Bear Mountain Carousel at Bear Mountain State Park was the perfect location for their Haunted Mansion-inspired reception. Peter wore shoes based on the Disneyland attraction, and the movie's soundtrack played throughout their wedding day. The bride wore a stunning custom-made dress that complemented the dramatic and dark florals. Their fun wedding cake was adorned with skull pumpkins with mouse ears, while the toppers were their own skeleton renditions!

One of the many highlights from the couple's Halloween wedding was definitely the merry-go-round that guests were able to ride all night.

See the awesome photos ahead!

The Kardashian-Jenners Have Set This Year's Biggest Nail Art Trends With These Looks

This year, some of the most distinct and memorable nail art trends were born . . . many of them thanks to the Kardashian-Jenner family.

Sisters Kylie, Khloé, Kendall, Kourtney, and Kim have all been seen with a handful of eye-catching nail looks, courtesy of some of the best manicurists in the game. The masterminds behind these designs include Chaun Legend, who is both Kylie and Khloé's go-to as of late, Kim Truong, who does Kourtney's nails, and the artists at Modern Pamper Salon, an LA-based salon that all of five sisters frequent.

Looking for inspiration on a nail art design to try yourself? Check out some of the Kardashian-Jenner's best looks this year, ahead.

This Gorgeous Halloween Wedding Was Inspired by Disney's Haunted Mansion!

Teresa and Peter have shared a love for all things Disney ever since they met. But they didn't want their families to have to travel across the country from New York for their wedding, so they did the next best thing and brought Disney to them. The Bear Mountain Carousel at Bear Mountain State Park was the perfect location for their Haunted Mansion-inspired reception. Peter wore shoes based on the Disneyland attraction, and the movie's soundtrack played throughout their wedding day. The bride wore a stunning custom-made dress that complemented the dramatic and dark florals. Their fun wedding cake was adorned with skull pumpkins with mouse ears, while the toppers were their own skeleton renditions!

One of the many highlights from the couple's Halloween wedding was definitely the merry-go-round that guests were able to ride all night.

See the awesome photos ahead!

This Gorgeous Halloween Wedding Was Inspired by Disney's Haunted Mansion!

Teresa and Peter have shared a love for all things Disney ever since they met. But they didn't want their families to have to travel across the country from New York for their wedding, so they did the next best thing and brought Disney to them. The Bear Mountain Carousel at Bear Mountain State Park was the perfect location for their Haunted Mansion-inspired reception. Peter wore shoes based on the Disneyland attraction, and the movie's soundtrack played throughout their wedding day. The bride wore a stunning custom-made dress that complemented the dramatic and dark florals. Their fun wedding cake was adorned with skull pumpkins with mouse ears, while the toppers were their own skeleton renditions!

One of the many highlights from the couple's Halloween wedding was definitely the merry-go-round that guests were able to ride all night.

See the awesome photos ahead!

How Your Student Health Center Can Help You Get Birth Control, Even If You're Uninsured

Whether you need protection against pregnancy or you take birth control to help treat specific symptoms, getting your hands on a prescription on campus may be easier than you think.

Many colleges require students to have health insurance, whether it's a private health plan or health coverage offered by the university, and under the Affordable Care Act, all private insurances - as well as most student plans - must cover contraceptives at no cost to patients. These include:

  • Barrier methods, like diaphragms and sponges
  • Hormonal methods, like birth control pills and vaginal rings
  • Implanted devices, like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the arm implant Nexplanon
  • Emergency contraception (also known as the morning-after pill)
  • Sterilization procedures
  • Patient education and counseling

This may explain why more students are gravitating toward forms of contraception that would have otherwise been costly. "We've seen dramatic growth in the number of students selecting long-acting reversible contraceptive methods, such as IUDs and Nexplanon, in the last five years or so," Sarah Van Orman, MD, chief health officer at the University of Southern California's student health center, told POPSUGAR. "In addition to being extremely effective and available to covered students at no out-of-pocket cost, they're also more convenient and don't require students to regularly go to a pharmacy and remember to do something every day, like taking a pill."

If you attend a college that doesn't require insurance coverage and you aren't currently insured, contact your student health center anyway. More than likely, your university has partnered with a local clinic or low-cost provider such as Planned Parenthood, which can provide affordable birth control, as well as regular exams and STI screenings (equally essential).

"At USC, it's important for us to provide these services because we know that for students, an important part of their emotional, social, and physical lives is having access to the tools they need for healthy sexual relationships, which means having access to convenient birth control, without barriers," Dr. Van Orman said. "An unplanned pregnancy can have a whole range of consequences that could interfere with someone's academic progress, as well as have an emotional and psychological impact on their lives, so it's good to have tools to make good decisions and control your own reproductive future."

In other words, there are probably systems in place to help ensure you stay feeling your best. Take advantage of them.

20 Stunning Dresses That Also Come in Petite Sizes - Starting at Just $55

Hunting down the perfect dress that fits just right is never easy. It can be especially tough if you're on the shorter side (because who wants to take an extra trip to the tailor?). To make sure you find the perfect additions to your Fall wardrobe, we did the hard work for you.

Ahead, you can shop the absolute best petite picks of the season. From brands like Loft and Topshop, prepare to want them all for work, vacation, and beyond. Keep reading to shop our favorites.

Related: Attending a Wedding? These Are the 17 Dresses to Buy Now and Wear Again Later

3's Not a Crowd, It's a Party: These Trio Halloween Costumes Prove It

Trio costumes always stand out in a sea of duos on Halloween, but if your threesome can't figure out what the heck to be, say no more! We've compiled the perfect list of three-people costume ideas that are easy, unique, and totally DIY-able. There won't be another triplet out there with a costume as unique as yours! From dessert costume ideas like ice cream and cupcakes to Disney characters like the Incredibles, it'll be hard to choose just one theme for the spooky night. Figure out which outfit best suits your crew with the ideas ahead!

- Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams and Tara Block

3's Not a Crowd, It's a Party: These Trio Halloween Costumes Prove It

Trio costumes always stand out in a sea of duos on Halloween, but if your threesome can't figure out what the heck to be, say no more! We've compiled the perfect list of three-people costume ideas that are easy, unique, and totally DIY-able. There won't be another triplet out there with a costume as unique as yours! From dessert costume ideas like ice cream and cupcakes to Disney characters like the Incredibles, it'll be hard to choose just one theme for the spooky night. Figure out which outfit best suits your crew with the ideas ahead!

- Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams and Tara Block

3's Not a Crowd, It's a Party: These Trio Halloween Costumes Prove It

Trio costumes always stand out in a sea of duos on Halloween, but if your threesome can't figure out what the heck to be, say no more! We've compiled the perfect list of three-people costume ideas that are easy, unique, and totally DIY-able. There won't be another triplet out there with a costume as unique as yours! From dessert costume ideas like ice cream and cupcakes to Disney characters like the Incredibles, it'll be hard to choose just one theme for the spooky night. Figure out which outfit best suits your crew with the ideas ahead!

- Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams and Tara Block

20 Stunning Dresses That Also Come in Petite Sizes - Starting at Just $55

Hunting down the perfect dress that fits just right is never easy. It can be especially tough if you're on the shorter side (because who wants to take an extra trip to the tailor?). To make sure you find the perfect additions to your Fall wardrobe, we did the hard work for you.

Ahead, you can shop the absolute best petite picks of the season. From brands like Loft and Topshop, prepare to want them all for work, vacation, and beyond. Keep reading to shop our favorites.

Related: Attending a Wedding? These Are the 17 Dresses to Buy Now and Wear Again Later

Kevin Jonas's "Sucker"-Inspired Tattoo of Danielle Shows Her Wearing That Pink Ballgown

Just two months before his anniversary, Kevin Jonas decided to get a sweet tattoo in honor of his wife Danielle and all the happy moments in their lives. Best of all, the tattoo - an abstract line-drawing of Danielle in a tulle dress - is inspired by her outfit in the Jonas Brothers' "Sucker" music video. In an Instagram post on Thursday, Jonas shared a photo of the tattoo, done by Los Angeles artist Winterstone, on his right forearm alongside a screenshot from the music video of Danielle wearing the bubblegum pink ballgown and walking a small pack of corgis.

Exactly one month ago, Jonas shared a photo of the new tattoo he got in honor of his daughters, 5-year-old Alena and 3-year-old Valentina. Needless to say, our hearts have practically melted from seeing all of his meaningful tattoo art. Keep scrolling to see Jonas's post and compare the tattoo with the original photo ahead.

Stop Searching - These Are the Best Running Sneakers of 2019

Any runner knows that when you find the right shoes, you're halfway to a great workout. If you've been searching for the perfect pair to help you crush your fitness goals, look no further. We love sneakers that we can wear for both running and other activities, like boxing, HIIT, or honestly, just running errands. So, we found options that can do everything, and you're going to want to stock up.

Whether you prefer a neutral ride or a super supportive shoe, these 11 picks are the best of the best. There are brightly colored styles and neutral styles alike, so if all you wear are black workout clothes, there are black shoes that match your wardrobe, and if you want to be noticed, there's a neon green pair we think you'll love. Now all you have to do is hit the road.

How Your Student Health Center Can Help You Get Birth Control, Even If You're Uninsured

Whether you need protection against pregnancy or you take birth control to help treat specific symptoms, getting your hands on a prescription on campus may be easier than you think.

Many colleges require students to have health insurance, whether it's a private health plan or health coverage offered by the university, and under the Affordable Care Act, all private insurances - as well as most student plans - must cover contraceptives at no cost to patients. These include:

  • Barrier methods, like diaphragms and sponges
  • Hormonal methods, like birth control pills and vaginal rings
  • Implanted devices, like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the arm implant Nexplanon
  • Emergency contraception (also known as the morning-after pill)
  • Sterilization procedures
  • Patient education and counseling

This may explain why more students are gravitating toward forms of contraception that would have otherwise been costly. "We've seen dramatic growth in the number of students selecting long-acting reversible contraceptive methods, such as IUDs and Nexplanon, in the last five years or so," Sarah Van Orman, MD, chief health officer at the University of Southern California's student health center, told POPSUGAR. "In addition to being extremely effective and available to covered students at no out-of-pocket cost, they're also more convenient and don't require students to regularly go to a pharmacy and remember to do something every day, like taking a pill."

If you attend a college that doesn't require insurance coverage and you aren't currently insured, contact your student health center anyway. More than likely, your university has partnered with a local clinic or low-cost provider such as Planned Parenthood, which can provide affordable birth control, as well as regular exams and STI screenings (equally essential).

"At USC, it's important for us to provide these services because we know that for students, an important part of their emotional, social, and physical lives is having access to the tools they need for healthy sexual relationships, which means having access to convenient birth control, without barriers," Dr. Van Orman said. "An unplanned pregnancy can have a whole range of consequences that could interfere with someone's academic progress, as well as have an emotional and psychological impact on their lives, so it's good to have tools to make good decisions and control your own reproductive future."

In other words, there are probably systems in place to help ensure you stay feeling your best. Take advantage of them.

Stop Searching - These Are the Best Running Sneakers of 2019

Any runner knows that when you find the right shoes, you're halfway to a great workout. If you've been searching for the perfect pair to help you crush your fitness goals, look no further. We love sneakers that we can wear for both running and other activities, like boxing, HIIT, or honestly, just running errands. So, we found options that can do everything, and you're going to want to stock up.

Whether you prefer a neutral ride or a super supportive shoe, these 11 picks are the best of the best. There are brightly colored styles and neutral styles alike, so if all you wear are black workout clothes, there are black shoes that match your wardrobe, and if you want to be noticed, there's a neon green pair we think you'll love. Now all you have to do is hit the road.

jeudi 17 octobre 2019

I'm an Ob-Gyn, and Here's What I Want You to Know About HPV and How It's Spread

Research suggests that up to 85 percent of women who are sexually active will be exposed to human papillomavirus (HPV) in their lifetime, but like other sexually transmitted infections, it still carries a bit of a stigma. As an ob-gyn, the first question I'm usually asked by patients is, "How did I get it?" To understand why HPV is so common, you first need to know the basics, including how it's spread.

What Is HPV?

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that often has no symptoms. There are many strains of HPV, ranging from low-risk to high-risk, some of which can cause cervical, anal, mouth, and throat cancers. HPV can also cause genital warts, and the virus to blame for most abnormal Pap tests - but despite this ominous list of complications, the virus usually heals on its own, typically within one to two years, before it can cause any problems. In fact, nine out of 10 cases of HPV resolve this way.

That means that the vast majority of people who test positive for HPV will experience no repercussions, though I always encourage my patients to help strengthen their immune systems to fight the virus by getting regular exercise, eating a healthy, plant-based diet, working to reduce stress, and prioritizing sleep. Of course, trying to limit your exposure to HPV is important, too.

How Is HPV Spread?

Though there are many strains of HPV, there are roughly 40 that are sexually transmitted. Unlike some other STIs, HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. This means that, while using condoms can reduce your risk of contracting HPV, it doesn't eliminate it. HPV can also lie dormant in your system for months or years, so unless you've only had one partner, it can be difficult to pinpoint who gave you HPV. That's especially true of the strains that can lead to abnormal Pap tests, because men cannot be tested for those types of HPV and most are asymptomatic.

Can You Get HPV Without Having Sex?

Yes. Because HPV can be transmitted skin-to-skin, you can contract it even if you only make contact with your mouth or hands. Of course, it can also be transmitted through penetration, which is why condoms can reduce your risk of HPV, along with other STIs. Research shows that sex toys can also harbor traces of the HPV virus even after they've been cleaned - so, if you're sharing sex toys, put a condom on that, too.

The best way to prevent HPV is to get the vaccine. It's a series of two or three shots that can be given to boys and girls starting at age 11. In 2018, the guidelines were expanded to include adults up to age 45. It's important that you also see your ob-gyn annually - this is the most effective way to catch early signs of HPV, like genital warts or an abnormal Pap. While a lump or bump isn't always a genital wart, treating the ones that are can help prevent the spread to other areas of your body or a partner.

I'm an Ob-Gyn, and Here's What I Want You to Know About HPV and How It's Spread

Research suggests that up to 85 percent of women who are sexually active will be exposed to human papillomavirus (HPV) in their lifetime, but like other sexually transmitted infections, it still carries a bit of a stigma. As an ob-gyn, the first question I'm usually asked by patients is, "How did I get it?" To understand why HPV is so common, you first need to know the basics, including how it's spread.

What Is HPV?

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that often has no symptoms. There are many strains of HPV, ranging from low-risk to high-risk, some of which can cause cervical, anal, mouth, and throat cancers. HPV can also cause genital warts, and the virus to blame for most abnormal Pap tests - but despite this ominous list of complications, the virus usually heals on its own, typically within one to two years, before it can cause any problems. In fact, nine out of 10 cases of HPV resolve this way.

That means that the vast majority of people who test positive for HPV will experience no repercussions, though I always encourage my patients to help strengthen their immune systems to fight the virus by getting regular exercise, eating a healthy, plant-based diet, working to reduce stress, and prioritizing sleep. Of course, trying to limit your exposure to HPV is important, too.

How Is HPV Spread?

Though there are many strains of HPV, there are roughly 40 that are sexually transmitted. Unlike some other STIs, HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. This means that, while using condoms can reduce your risk of contracting HPV, it doesn't eliminate it. HPV can also lie dormant in your system for months or years, so unless you've only had one partner, it can be difficult to pinpoint who gave you HPV. That's especially true of the strains that can lead to abnormal Pap tests, because men cannot be tested for those types of HPV and most are asymptomatic.

Can You Get HPV Without Having Sex?

Yes. Because HPV can be transmitted skin-to-skin, you can contract it even if you only make contact with your mouth or hands. Of course, it can also be transmitted through penetration, which is why condoms can reduce your risk of HPV, along with other STIs. Research shows that sex toys can also harbor traces of the HPV virus even after they've been cleaned - so, if you're sharing sex toys, put a condom on that, too.

The best way to prevent HPV is to get the vaccine. It's a series of two or three shots that can be given to boys and girls starting at age 11. In 2018, the guidelines were expanded to include adults up to age 45. It's important that you also see your ob-gyn annually - this is the most effective way to catch early signs of HPV, like genital warts or an abnormal Pap. While a lump or bump isn't always a genital wart, treating the ones that are can help prevent the spread to other areas of your body or a partner.

Hands Down, These Are the 50+ Best Kitchen Organizers on the Internet

If you feel like your kitchen could use a little refresh, you're in luck. You can give it the facelift it needs by simply investing in smart organizing products. To make it easy, we shopped and uncovered more than 50 seriously genius products that will keep your space clean and make finding all your necessities a breeze. From fridge organizers to pretty glass containers, you'll wonder how you ever lived so long without them. So, what are you waiting for? Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.

Get Stoked! These '80s Couples Costumes For Halloween Are Totally B*tchin'

You might want to take a chill pill, because these couples costumes will make your Halloween totally b*tchin' in all the right ways. If you love the '80s, whether that be the rad movies, cool TV shows, righteous music, or just the time itself, you'll freak out when you see these costume ideas that were based off the coolest decade yet. From the iconic characters of Dirty Dancing to '80s prom looks that will make you nostalgic for high school, to some of the all-time best Cher song references, these costumes will take you all the way back in time.

Grab your SO and get stoked because these '80s-themed costumes are better than bodacious.

- Additional reporting by Hilary White

Get Stoked! These '80s Couples Costumes For Halloween Are Totally B*tchin'

You might want to take a chill pill, because these couples costumes will make your Halloween totally b*tchin' in all the right ways. If you love the '80s, whether that be the rad movies, cool TV shows, righteous music, or just the time itself, you'll freak out when you see these costume ideas that were based off the coolest decade yet. From the iconic characters of Dirty Dancing to '80s prom looks that will make you nostalgic for high school, to some of the all-time best Cher song references, these costumes will take you all the way back in time.

Grab your SO and get stoked because these '80s-themed costumes are better than bodacious.

- Additional reporting by Hilary White

Get Stoked! These '80s Couples Costumes For Halloween Are Totally B*tchin'

You might want to take a chill pill, because these couples costumes will make your Halloween totally b*tchin' in all the right ways. If you love the '80s, whether that be the rad movies, cool TV shows, righteous music, or just the time itself, you'll freak out when you see these costume ideas that were based off the coolest decade yet. From the iconic characters of Dirty Dancing to '80s prom looks that will make you nostalgic for high school, to some of the all-time best Cher song references, these costumes will take you all the way back in time.

Grab your SO and get stoked because these '80s-themed costumes are better than bodacious.

- Additional reporting by Hilary White