The human papillomavirus or HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are many types of HPV, and not all of them cause health problems.
HPV is caused by a group of over 200 viruses that can be spread through genital contact. This can occur during sexual intercourse or through direct skin-to-skin contact. Over 30 strains of HPV can affect the genitals. Many of these are classified as harmless because they only produce genital warts.
It’s important to always take signs of HPV seriously. While many variations aren’t harmful, there are some that can turn into cancer. If you are concerned about your cancer risk, learn the early signs of cancer that every woman should know about.
HPV Can Lead to Cancer
Some HPV infections can become life-threatening if they are left untreated. When a high-risk strain of the virus is present, it can begin to interfere with cell division, replication, and communication. This can cause the cells to multiply uncontrollably and eventually turn into cancer.
Usually, the immune system recognizes infected cells and prevents them from becoming a bigger problem. If the infected cells are not controlled, they will keep growing, eventually creating precancerous cells. If this is not treated, then it can turn into cancer.
The good news is that the process isn’t usually quick. Researchers have found that it takes between five and ten years for infected cells to turn into precancers. It can take about 20 years for an infection to become cancer.
The downside is that a long duration can make the problem easier to miss or ignore. Early detection and treatment are the best ways to protect yourself from cancer.
Several factors can increase the risk of HPV infections turning into cancer:
- Contracted an aggressive form of HPV like HPV18 or HPV16
- Already having an HIV infection
- Being immunocompromised
- Taking medication that suppresses the immune system
- Being a smoker
Even if none of the risk factors applies to you, you can still be at risk for developing cancer due to an HPV infection.
Are You Showing Symptoms of HPV?
The body can usually fight off HPV before it causes symptoms. However, you should talk to your doctor right away if you notice any changes in your body.
Unfortunately, high-risk HPV doesn’t have specific symptoms. The main sign to look for is genital warts. These can appear as flat lesions, tiny protrusions, or small bumps with a cauliflower texture. They can show up on the vulva, near the anus, on the cervix, or even inside the vagina.
As the infection worsens and precancerous cells become cancerous, you may notice:
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Unpleasant vaginal discharge
The best course of action is to get tested even if you don’t notice symptoms. If you know for sure, then you can begin treatment before the infection becomes precancerous.
How to Protect Yourself from HPV
Every woman should know how to protect themselves from HPV. Using latex condoms and dental dams is a good first step, but it isn’t a guarantee.
Abstinence is the most reliable way to avoid an HPV infection. That means abstaining from all types of sexual interaction including vaginal, oral, and anal. While this may work for some, it’s not a feasible option for others.
A multi-layered approach is ideal for anyone who wants to remain sexually active while also protecting themselves from HPV. Vaccines are available to help prevent several variations of the virus.
The controversy behind the HPV vaccine has encouraged some women to avoid it, but these claims are unfounded. It’s best to listen to your doctor and follow their guidance when it comes to vaccinations and sexual health.
Vaccines, condoms, and making safe decisions about sex will help you avoid a potentially high-risk HPV infection.
How Do I Know If I Already Have HPV?
The only way to know if you already have HPV is to talk to your doctor. They may recommend an HPV test. Most guidelines recommend testing for women over age 30.
The test looks for signs of infection in the narrow end of the uterus, known as the cervix. This process doesn’t detect cancer cells but will determine if HPV is present and if additional action like a biopsy may be needed.
It’s important to note that an HPV test is not the same as a pap smear. A pap smear looks for changes that can be caused by HPV while the HPV test looks for the presence of a high-risk infection.
The HPV testing process is very similar to a pap smear. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to allow your doctor to view your cervix.
A small brush or spatula is used to remove cells for testing. HPV tests shouldn’t hurt but you may feel a little pressure or discomfort. Some patients experience light bleeding afterward. The process is quick, usually only taking a few minutes.
If you are getting a pap smear and HPV test at the same time, then your doctor may take two separate samples or may be able to use one sample for both.
Most patients are advised to get tested for HPV at least once every five years until age 65. After that, you may be able to stop testing depending on your doctor’s recommendation. Some patients may be able to only get an HPV test instead of an HPV test and pap smear.
Anyone who has had cervical problems or a weakened immune system may be advised to test more frequently.
A doctor can help you figure out the best testing schedule for you. Contact a Georgia gynecologist now to schedule a visit and take the first step in protecting yourself from HPV.