The Abcs Of Hpv

One of the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases today is genital warts. Caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), these warts can be caused from any one of over 100 strains of the virus. The same family of viruses that can cause warts on your fingers and toes, HPV also has at least 30-40 strains that are transmitted via sexual contact.

As indicated in the name, genital warts affect the genital area of both men and women. Some warts present themselves as rough spots on the skin while others are the typical cauliflower shaped ones. In women, these warts can show up on the vulva, vagina linings and even inside the cervix. In men, the penis, urethra and scrotum are likely places. In both sexes, these warts can show up around the anus and inside the rectum areas.

Some people will not show any symptoms of HPV and do not know that they have it at all. Only an outbreak of warts clues them in. In some cases, the HPV virus that causes these warts can also lead to cancer, particularly in the cervix and penis. Around 15-20 million people are currently infected with HPV.

Mode of Transmission and How a Diagnosis is Made

Obviously, because HPV is a sexually transmitted disease, sexual contact is the primary mode of transmission. Even genital to genital contact with no penetration is a possibility as well. However, the use of a latex condom does help in reducing the transmission of HPV. The human papilloma virus can lie dormant for years, never causing an outbreak of genital warts so many people do not know that they could pass it on through sex.

If there are no visible signs in a man, chances are that they will never know that they have HPV. With a woman however, they could get an abnormal Pap smear during their well woman yearly exam. There is also a HPV DNA test available to a woman that is also available which more and more doctors are employing during yearly physicals.

Treatment and Repercussions of HPV

There are several topical creams and gels that can be applied to visible genital warts caused by HPV. In addition, cryotherapy and electrocautery (freezing and burning) of the warts is also an option. Surgical excision and laser treatments are the only other choices that could remove the warts but not the infection.

No cure is available for HPV or any virus known to man, for that matter. This presents a problem as 10 of the 30 strains of HPV that causes genital warts also can cause cancer. Women are the ones who typically form the cancer and it is usually cancer of the cervix that presents itself. That is why yearly Pap smears and other testing is so important for early detection.

The only sure fire way to avoid contracting HPV is abstaining from sex, particularly from multiple partners. However, you can use a condom to help protect you from most of the danger. The best recourse would be for both partners to see a doctor to be thoroughly examined and checked out for all types of sexually transmitted diseases before sex is even contemplated.

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