Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (vaginal, anal, or oral) with anyone who is infected with the virus. Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV, even if you've only had sex with one person.
There are more than 150 types of HPV virus in the world, several types cause genital warts, about 12 types known as high risk types that cause cancer.
Most people with HPV are unaware that they are infected and never develop symptoms. But in some, the infection persists and can lead to precancerous changes.
Diseases that occur with HPV infection:
- Formation of genital warts.
- Development of papillomatosis of the respiratory tract.
- Lesion of the genital organs with the development of a tumor process.
- Cancer of the cervix.
- Cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, penis and oropharynx.
Almost 70% of the population are carriers of the pathogen without clinical manifestations of the disease. Re-infection is also possible during life. Because not all those who have had papillomavirus infections develop resistance to the virus.
HPV symptoms:
The presence of papillomavirus infection may not have clinical manifestations for a long time. The incubation period of the disease can last for several years, during which the patient can become infected with various types of the virus. Only after exposure to provoking factors (immunodeficiency, hypothermia, stressful situations), signs of HPV infection can be observed. In most cases, self-healing from this infection occurs within 1-2 years, but in some patients the pathology becomes chronic.
Genital warts (genital warts). Outwardly, these are papillary growths that resemble cauliflower or a comb in shape. They are flesh-colored or pink, and can be single or multiple. They can form everywhere, but are most often found on the skin and genital mucosa. Formations are characterized by low oncogenic potential. They rarely turn into malignant neoplasms, usually do not cause discomfort to the patient.
Can HPV Cure and Get Rid of HPV-Related Health Problems?
As of today, there is no cure for the virus itself. However, there are treatments for health problems that can be caused by HPV.
Prevention of HPV:
In order to prevent the development of the disease, various methods are used. The most effective are:
- • Monogamous relationships. You only have sex with a person for whom you are the only sexual partner. This method will protect yourself from all sexually transmitted infections, including HPV.
- • Use of barrier contraception. It is easy, affordable, but not always 100% safe for infection. The patient can become infected with the virus, even if the damaged skin comes in contact with the area.
- • Periodic preventive examinations. Girls need to be examined regularly by a gynecologist. Thus, you can detect the first signs of the disease and start treatment in a timely manner.
- • Vaccination. It is an effective and convenient preventive method. The vaccination can be given to both men and women.
Vaccination is most effective before the onset of sexual activity. Or persons who are sexually active in the absence of contraindications.
- • Timely screening.
When should you see a doctor?
Be sure to consult a doctor if you notice formations (warts, outgrowths) on your skin that look like genital warts. The doctor will prescribe the necessary examinations for you to help determine the exact cause of the disease and exclude other sexually transmitted diseases.
You can make an appointment with a doctor by calling the call center number: 87172702-911.