HPV Infection: Understanding, Prevention, and Protection Against Cervical Cancer
Human Papillomavirus (HPV), often referred to simply as HPV infection or HPV virus, is a very common sexually transmitted infection. While many HPV infections clear on their own without causing harm, certain HPV types, particularly high risk HPV types, can lead to serious health problems, most notably cervical cancer. Understanding HPV, its transmission, prevention, and the importance of screening is vital for women’s health.
Understanding HPV:
There are over 100 different types of HPV. These are broadly classified into low risk HPV and high risk HPV types based on their potential to cause cancer.
- Low-risk HPV types typically cause genital warts, which are non-cancerous growths on the genitals or around the anus.
- High-risk HPV types are more concerning as they can cause abnormal cell changes that, if left untreated, may develop into cancer. High-risk HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, but it can also contribute to cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oropharynx (back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils).
Transmission:
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can be transmitted even when an infected person has no visible symptoms. This explains how is HPV transmitted easily among sexually active individuals.
Symptoms:
Many people with HPV infection have no noticeable HPV symptoms and the infection clears on its own. However, if symptoms do occur, they depend on the type of HPV:
- Genital warts are the most common symptom of low-risk HPV. They can vary in appearance and may be small or large, raised or flat, or cauliflower-shaped.
- High-risk HPV infections typically do not cause any visible symptoms until they have caused significant cell changes or cancer. This is why regular screening is so important for detecting precancerous cervical lesions early.
Diagnosis and Screening:
Detecting HPV infection and HPV-related cellular changes is crucial for preventing cervical cancer. Diagnostic and HPV screening methods include:
- Pap smear (Pap test): This screening test collects cells from the cervix to check for abnormalities that could be precancerous or cancerous (cervical cancer screening).
- HPV test: This test detects the presence of high-risk HPV DNA in cervical cells. It is often done alongside a Pap smear (co-testing) or as a primary screening tool depending on age and guidelines.
- Colposcopy: If a Pap smear or HPV test shows abnormal results, a colposcopy may be performed. This procedure uses a magnifying instrument to get a closer look at the cervix, vagina, and vulva, and allows for biopsies of any suspicious areas.
Prevention:
Preventing HPV infection and related diseases involves several strategies:
- HPV vaccine (HPV vaccination): Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection with the HPV types most commonly associated with cancer and genital warts. Vaccines like Gardasil vaccine and Gardasil 9 vaccine protect against multiple HPV types. Vaccination is typically recommended for adolescents before they become sexually active, but it can also be beneficial for young adults.
- Safe sex practices: Using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, although they may not provide complete protection as the virus can infect areas not covered by a condom.
- Regular cervical cancer screening: Routine Pap tests and/or HPV tests are essential for early detection of precancerous changes, allowing for prompt treatment for HPV positive results and preventing the development of invasive cervical cancer.
Treatment:
There is currently no cure for the HPV virus itself. However, the conditions caused by HPV are treatable:
- Genital warts treatment options include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), surgical removal, or laser treatment.
- Precancerous cervical lesions identified through screening and colposcopy can be treated with procedures like LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) or conization to remove the abnormal cells and prevent them from becoming cancerous.
- Cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers are treated based on their stage and location, often involving surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.
Finding a Specialist:
For concerns about HPV infection, cervical cancer screening, or any related symptoms or conditions, it is important to consult a healthcare professional specializing in women’s reproductive health or oncology. A Gynaecologist for HPV, Women’s Health Doctor, or Surgical Oncologist (Gynae) are key specialists in managing these issues.
Expert Care in Nagpur:
For women in Nagpur seeking comprehensive care for HPV infection and related health concerns, expert medical professionals are available. Searching for “HPV treatment in Nagpur,” “Gynaecologist for HPV Nagpur,” “Cervical cancer screening Nagpur,” “HPV testing Nagpur,” or “HPV vaccination Nagpur” can help you find qualified local specialists.
Dr. Sumeet Baheti is a highly experienced Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon & Surgical Oncologist (Gynae) practicing in Nagpur. As a leading best Gynaecologist and Women’s Health Doctor, she provides comprehensive services for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of HPV infection and its associated conditions, particularly cervical cancer. Dr. Baheti offers and advises on HPV vaccination as a crucial preventive measure. She conducts essential cervical cancer screening using Pap smear and HPV test, and performs colposcopy for further evaluation of abnormal results. She provides expert treatment for HPV positive women, including the management of precancerous cervical lesions to prevent cancer development. Furthermore, with her specialization as a Surgical Oncologist (Gynae), she is equipped to provide surgical treatment for early-stage HPV-related gynaecological cancers, offering comprehensive care for women in Nagpur concerned about HPV and their cervical health.
If you have questions about HPV infection, are due for cervical cancer screening, or have concerns about abnormal results, consulting with a specialist in Nagpur is a crucial step in protecting your health.