On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
What is Human Papilloma Virus?
HPV is considered a sexually transmitted infection and a DNA virus that infects the skin, or mucous cells or those in the lining of organs within the reproductive system. It can affect both women and men, but is more common among women. There are approximately 200 types, categorized as:
- High-risk types, which are often responsible for causing cancer, most notably HPV16 and HPV18.
- Low-risk types, which usually cause warts on the body and do not lead to serious complications like the first type.
What are the symptoms of HPV?
Patients infected with HPV may not show symptoms, but the most prominent manifestations include:
- Warts on the body, often in the genital areas of both males and females, and may also appear in the mouth and throat.
- Precancerous cells or lesions that might cause symptoms like bleeding and irritation in the affected area.
- Women may discover they have HPV upon screening for cervical cancer.
The virus can persist in the body for several years. When the immune system is weakened, it can cause cancers in the reproductive system of both men and women, and the throat, potentially leading to symptoms such as:
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Swelling.
What causes HPV infection?
- HPV is transmitted through sexual contact and can spread through all types of sexual interactions, even if symptoms are not present.
- Skin-to-skin contact.
- In rare cases, the virus can be transmitted from mother to fetus.
- It can also spread through direct contact with wounds of an infected person.
- Certain risk factors for HPV include having multiple sexual partners and having AIDS.
How is it diagnosed?
Healthcare providers can typically diagnose genital warts simply by looking at them. The doctor takes a medical history and conducts a physical examination, and may recommend additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Pap Smear: This test screens for cervical cancer and precancerous cells that could become cancerous if left untreated. Cervical cancer is always caused by high-risk HPV.
- Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA): If warts are not visible, a healthcare provider applies a solution to turn abnormal cells white, making them easier to identify.
How is HPV treated?
Currently, there is no specific treatment for HPV, but there are treatments for its associated problems.
- Treatment for warts, which may increase in size and number, remain the same, or spontaneously disappear.
- Treatment for precancerous stages of cervical cancer.
- Cancer treatment.
How can HPV be prevented?
- By receiving two doses of the HPV vaccine between the ages of 9 and 14 for both females and males, the risk of HPV-related cancers is reduced by 90%.
- If the vaccine is not taken before the age of 15, it can be administered up to age 26 with three doses.
- Undergoing cervical cancer screening starting from age 21 every three years.
What are the complications of HPV?
- The virus starts to become chronic.
- Developing cervical cancer.
- Developing other reproductive system cancers.
There are 14 types of HPV that increase the risk of cancers in the reproductive system.
When should you see a doctor?
If you experience any signs or symptoms of HPV, such as warts on the body, often in the genital areas, or vaginal bleeding, especially after intercourse, it is important to see a doctor immediately for a medical examination.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the vaccine replace cervical cancer screening?
No, the vaccine alone does not replace cervical cancer screening for those at risk.
Does HPV affect pregnant women?
Yes, pregnant women with HPV may develop warts. They might also experience cell changes, and routine cervical cancer screening is required during pregnancy.
Is the vaccine suitable for those over 26 years old?
It is less effective compared to younger age groups and is generally not recommended for those between 26 and 45 years old.
