HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and Its Impact on Women’s Health

Introduction

HP (Human Papillomavirus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. It affects all genders; its impacts on women’s health are significant. In case of persistent infection, it can lead to genital warts and certain types of cancer. Because many HPV infections show no symptoms, women may be unaware they are affected until any complications arise. Here, we’ll understand HPV, its symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment to help you maintain long-term health. 

What is HPV? 

HPV is a group of more than 100 related viruses; some cause harmless skin growth like warts, while others can lead to cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, and throat. The virus infects cells lining the skin and mucous membranes, including those of the genital area, mouth, and throat. 

HPV is transmitted primarily through skin-to-skin contact, often through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It is classified into two types: low-risk HPV and high-risk HPV. For most women, the infection clears up on its own within a couple of years without causing any health problems. However, if the infection occurs repeatedly, it can lead to the development of cancer over the years. 

HPV Symptoms 

Some common HPV symptoms include: 

• Genital warts: Soft, small bumps around the genital or anal area. 

• Genital Changes: Irregular bleeding after sex or unusual vaginal discharge, irregular periods, or foul odor. 

Risk Factors  

Here are some risk factors that may increase the risk of HPV infection. 

• Smoking 

• Compromised immunity (including HIV or a renal transplant) 

• Multiple sexual partners 

• Poor genital hygiene 

Diagnosis  

HPV infection is diagnosed through screening tests.  

• Your doctor may do a visual inspection to check for genital warts. 

• For women, tests like a pap smear and anal pap smear for men are used to detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix.  

• An HPV DNA test could be suggested to identify the presence of high-risk HPV strains. 

• Your doctor may also take a biopsy of the suspicious lesion for testing.  

HPV Treatment 

While there’s no cure for the HPV virus, HPV treatment is available for the conditions it causes. 

• Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is available for females aged 9–26 years. This reduces the chances of developing warts and the risk of cancer. 

• Screening: Regular screening, like a pap smear between 30 and 65 years, helps detect abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous. Also, the HPV DNA test helps identify high-risk HPV. 

• Surgery: For pre-cancerous lesions, procedures like loop electrosurgical excision, laser therapy, or cryotherapy could be suggested. It helps remove abnormal tissue before it becomes cancerous. 

• Radiation: For localised cancers, radiation can be used. For more advanced stages, radiation is combined with chemotherapy. 

Conclusion 

HPV is one of the widespread sexually transmitted viruses. It’s also a highly preventable cause of cancer. Most infections are harmless and resolve without any treatment. However, persistent infection with high-risk types can have serious consequences if untreated. Thus, regular screening, vaccination, and awareness are the best tools to protect yourself from HPV. 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms and want to visit the Best Gynaecology Hospital in Gorakhpur, consider visiting Regency Healthcare Hospital. 

Also Read: Irregular Periods: Causes, Symptoms, Side Effects, & Treatment 

FAQ 

Can I live normally with HPV infection? 

Yes, most people with HPV can live completely normal lives. HPV is a prevalent condition. And in most cases, the body’s immune system clears the virus naturally within one or two years without causing any health issues. Even if it doesn’t go away, it usually remains inactive and causes no harm. 

How does one get an HPV infection? 

A person gets HPV through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The most common way HPV spreads is through sexual activity. One can also get it through close genital contact even without penetration. It can even be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby during childbirth. 

HPV infection is mainly spread through skin-to-skin sexual contact. It can also spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. 

Is having an HPV infection equivalent to cervical cancer? 

No, having an HPV infection is not the same as having cervical cancer. Most HPV infections are temporary and clear on their own. Only persistent HPV infection can lead to cancer. 

Can HPV infection be prevented? 

Yes, HPV infection can be prevented through the HPV vaccine, which is safe and effective for age groups of 9-26 years. Apart from that, having safe sex, strengthening the immune system, and regular screening could be helpful to prevent the infection. 

Is HPV screening painful? 

No, HPV screening is not painful, but you might feel a little discomfort. In this process, your doctor takes a sample from your cervix and sends it for testing.