Everything You Need to Know About HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Affecting both women and men, this virus can cause various health problems with its different types. Associated with serious health problems, especially cervical cancer and genital warts, HPV can be controlled with early diagnosis and protection methods.

What is HPV?

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a group of viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes. There are more than 200 types of these viruses, approximately 40 of which are sexually transmitted and affect the genital areas. HPV is divided into two main categories: low-risk and high-risk types:

Low-Risk HPV Types: It usually causes genital warts and has a low potential to develop into cancer.
High-Risk HPV Types: It can cause some types of cancer, especially cervical cancer. HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases.

The virus is usually controlled by the immune system after infection and may not show symptoms. However, in some cases, it remains in the body for a long time and can cause serious health problems.

How is HPV Transmitted?

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Apart from sexual intercourse, it can also be transmitted through contact with genital areas. The risk of contracting the virus is higher in unprotected sexual intercourse, multiple partners and people who have not been vaccinated against HPV. There is also a risk of transmission from an infected mother to her baby during birth.

Ways of HPV Transmission:

Sexually: It can be transmitted during vaginal, anal and oral sex.
Contact: Skin contact with the genital area can also cause transmission.
During Birth: HPV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby, but this is rare.

HPV Symptoms

Most HPV infections are asymptomatic and the person does not realize they are carrying the virus. However, in some cases, the following symptoms may be observed:

Genital Warts: Small, raised, flesh-colored warts may appear in the genital area, around the anus, or inside the mouth.
Skin Changes: Small, hard warts may appear on the hands or feet.
Cancer Symptoms: Cancers caused by high-risk HPV types usually do not show symptoms in the early stages. However, symptoms such as bleeding, pain or weight loss may occur in the later stages.

Even if no symptoms are seen, it is possible to be an HPV carrier and this increases the risk of transmission to sexual partners. Therefore, regular health checks and screening tests are of great importance.

Diseases Caused by HPV

HPV infection, especially with high-risk types, can lead to serious health problems. The most common of these are:

Cervix Cancer

Cervix cancer is one of the most serious consequences of HPV infection. High-risk HPV types have the potential to turn into cancer by causing changes in cervical cells. This risk can be significantly reduced with regular Pap smear tests and HPV vaccination.

Genital Warts

Low-risk types of HPV can cause warts in the genital area. These warts usually do not turn into cancer, but they can spread and cause discomfort if left untreated.

Other Types of Cancer

HPV is associated with the following types of cancer, in addition to cervical cancer:

Vaginal and vulvar cancer
Penile cancer
Anal cancer
Oral and throat cancers

How is HPV Diagnosed?

The most commonly used methods for diagnosing HPV include the Pap smear test and the HPV DNA test. These tests are used to detect any abnormalities or HPV in the cervical cells. In addition, doctors can diagnose genital warts with a physical examination.

Pap Smear Test

This test allows samples to be taken from the cervical cells and examined under a microscope. If abnormal changes are detected in the cells, advanced examination and treatment methods are applied.

HPV DNA Test

HPV DNA test is used to detect especially high-risk HPV types. When applied together with the Pap smear test, it is used to detect the risk of cervical cancer at an early stage.It is a very effective method.

HPV Vaccine

HPV vaccine is a protective method especially applied at a young age and provides significant protection against high-risk HPV types. The vaccine has the highest protection, especially when administered before starting sexual life.

Who is vaccinated with HPV?

It is recommended for women and men between the ages of 9-26.
Before starting sexual life provides the most effective protection.
HPV vaccine can also be administered to adults, but its protection is lower in people who have started sexual intercourse.

How Many Doses of HPV Vaccine Are Given?

HPV vaccine is usually administered in 2-3 doses. The vaccination plan is determined according to the age and health status of the person.

HPV Treatment Methods

There is no specific treatment method for the HPV virus itself. However, the symptoms and diseases caused by the virus can be treated:

Genital Warts: Removing warts with cryotherapy (freezing) or laser.
Cervical Cancer: Cancer treatment with methods such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.
Strengthening the Immune System: The body can clear most HPV infections over time. Healthy eating and lifestyle changes can support the immune system.

HPV and Pregnancy

HPV infection during pregnancy usually does not pose a serious risk to the baby. However, genital warts can block the birth canal and may require a cesarean section. In addition, although very rare, HPV can be transmitted from mother to baby during birth.

Ways to Protect Yourself from HPV

The main precautions that can be taken to protect yourself from HPV infection are:

HPV Vaccine: HPV vaccine is one of the most effective protection methods.
Using Condoms: Using a condom during sexual intercourse reduces the risk of HPV transmission, but does not provide complete protection.
Regular Health Checks: Early diagnosis is possible with Pap smear test and HPV DNA test.
Monogamy and Safe Sexual Life: Avoiding multiple partners and knowing the health status of your partners also reduces the risk.

Living with HPV

When you are HPV positive, this does not mean that it will turn into cancer. It is possible to keep HPV under control with regular follow-up and treatment methods. In addition, support groups and psychological counseling can be useful in this process.

Misconceptions About HPV

HPV only affects women: False. HPV can affect both men and women.
HPV vaccine completely prevents cancer: HPV vaccine protects from high-risk types, but regular screenings should continue.
Condoms completely protect from HPV: Condoms reduce the risk of HPV transmission, but do not completely prevent it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How is HPV transmitted?

HPV is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse or genital contact. It can be transmitted during vaginal, anal or oral sex.

2. What are the symptoms of HPV infection?

Most HPV infections are asymptomatic. Genital warts or cancer symptoms may be seen.

3. At what age should the HPV vaccine be given?

HPV vaccine is usually given between the ages of 9-26, but it can also be given at older ages.

4. Does the HPV virus cause cancer?

Yes, especially high-risk HPV types can cause cancer types such as cervical, anal and oral cancer.

5. Can HPV be treated?

There is no specific treatment for HPV itself, but warts and cellular changes that can turn into cancer can be treated.

6. Is the HPV vaccine safe?

Yes, the HPV vaccine is safe and serious side effects are extremely rare.

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