HPV: Prevention Tips, Symptoms, And Causes Every Woman Needs To Know

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI), and while it is common, it can pose significant health risks. We consulted with health experts to gain deeper insights into HPV and its implications.

Itisha Arya
Editorial
Updated - 2024-08-29, 16:48 IST

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that comes in various strains, often leading to warts on the skin or mucous membranes. While most HPV infections are minor and resolve on their own, some strains can cause significant health issues, such as genital warts and different types of cancer.

For women, it is essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures related to HPV to safeguard their long-term health. We reached out to Dr Pooja Mehta, Senior Director and Unit Head of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Marengo Asia Hospitals in Gurugram, and Dr Ankita Chandna, Director of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Shalimar Bagh, who provided insights on prevention, symptoms, and causes of HPV.

What Is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) consists of over 200 related viruses that can lead to warts, epithelial lesions, and cancers. Certain HPV types are linked to nearly all cases of cervical cancer. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women in India. With around 365.71 million women over the age of 15 in the country at risk, India sees approximately 132,000 new cases and 74,000 deaths from cervical cancer each year. This accounts for nearly one-third of the global cervical cancer deaths.

what are the causes of hpv

Causes Of HPV

We spoke with Dr Ankita Chandna, who explained the causes of HPV. She said, “HPV is mainly spread through direct sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can be transmitted even when the infected person shows no visible symptoms, making it easy to pass on unknowingly.” Dr Chandna also mentioned that HPV can be spread through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, even without intercourse.

Key risk factors for HPV include:

Having multiple sexual partners increases the likelihood of exposure.
Engaging in sexual activity at a younger age can elevate the risk.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those on immunosuppressive treatments, are more prone to HPV infections.
Not receiving the HPV vaccine increases the risk of contracting high-risk strains of the virus.

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Symptoms Of HPV

Dr Ankita Chandna explains that while most HPV infections are asymptomatic, visible symptoms can occur. These include:

Genital Warts: Small, flesh-coloured or grey growths in the genital area caused by certain low-risk strains of HPV. Though not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort and emotional distress.
Cervical Changes: High-risk strains of HPV can lead to cellular changes in the cervix, which are detectable through routine Pap smears. If left untreated, these changes can develop into cervical cancer.
Common Warts: Rough, raised bumps on the hands, fingers, or elbows. These warts are generally harmless but may be unsightly and uncomfortable, especially if they irritate the surrounding skin.
Respiratory Warts: Warts in the respiratory tract, including the larynx (voice box), which can lead to hoarseness, voice changes, and breathing difficulties. This condition is caused by HPV types 6 and 11, which also cause genital warts.
Asymptomatic Infections: Many HPV infections do not present symptoms and resolve on their own without causing long-term health issues. However, even without symptoms, the virus can be transmitted to others and may lead to serious health problems over time.