HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection can be triggered by a number of factors and increase the risk of infection. Here are some important factors that trigger HPV infections:
Sexual Intercourse: HPV is most commonly transmitted during sexual contact. The virus can be passed from person to person through body fluids or skin contact. Therefore, contact with an infected partner during sexual activity involving oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse increases the risk of HPV transmission.
Early Sexual Activity: Starting sexual activity at a young age can increase the risk of HPV infection. This is because the immune system may not be fully matured yet, making the body more vulnerable to the virus.
Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of HPV infection. Each new partner increases the risk of getting infected and the likelihood of the virus being transmitted.
Weak Immune System: People with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to HPV infection. Factors that can weaken the immune system include HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, immunosuppressive drugs, and other health problems. These individuals are at higher risk of getting infected and the infection may lead to more serious consequences.
Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of HPV infection and the likelihood of more serious consequences. People who smoke may have a higher risk of cervical cancer.
Male Partners: Men with genital warts, which are a risk factor for HPV infection, can contribute to the transmission of the infection.
Family History of Cervical Cancer: Family history can increase the risk of cervical cancer. Genetic factors can influence a person’s risk of developing cervical cancer.
Insufficient HPV Vaccination: HPV vaccines provide protection against specific types of HPV. Living in areas with low vaccination rates or not completing the vaccine series can increase the risk of infection.
HPV is a virus with many different types, and most infections can resolve on their own. However, high-risk HPV types can be associated with cervical cancer and other cancers. Therefore, it is important to get HPV vaccinations, use protective measures such as condoms during sexual activity, undergo regular screenings, and follow doctor’s advice to protect against HPV infections. Additionally, sexual education and awareness can also reduce the risk of infection.
What Happens After HPV Virus is Triggered?
After a person is infected with the HPV virus, the course and outcomes of the infection can vary depending on the individual and the type of HPV involved. Here are common outcomes of HPV infection:
Spontaneous Healing: Many HPV infections heal spontaneously and symptoms disappear. The immune system can control and eventually clear the virus. Symptoms such as genital warts can disappear.
Asymptomatic Infection: Most HPV infections do not show symptoms. This means that a person is infected but does not experience any signs or symptoms. Therefore, many people can be carriers of HPV without being aware of it.
Genital Warts: Genital warts can appear as a result of HPV infection. These warts are usually seen in areas where sexual contact occurs (penis, vagina, anus, genital area), and can appear as skin-colored or wart-like growths. Genital warts can be treated, but they do not completely eliminate the HPV infection.
Risk of Cervical Cancer: High-risk HPV types are associated with cervical cancer. These types of HPV infections can cause abnormalities in cervical cells and eventually lead to cervical cancer over time. Therefore, regular cervical screenings are important for early diagnosis and treatment.
Other Cancers and Lesions: HPV has been associated with other types of cancer, such as anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and oral cancers. These cancers can be linked to HPV infection.
Role of the Immune System: The immune system plays an important role in controlling HPV infection. HPV infections can last longer and lead to more serious consequences in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Keep in mind that HPV infections can resolve spontaneously in many individuals and do not cause serious health problems. However, high-risk HPV types can be associated with cervical cancer and other cancers, so regular screenings and following doctor’s advice are important. If you have concerns about HPV infection or if you have symptoms, you should consult a healthcare professional.
What to Do After HPV Virus Appears?
What needs to be done after exposure to or infection with the HPV virus may vary depending on the type of infection and the symptoms. Here are some steps to take after HPV infection:
Consult a Doctor: If you have any symptoms or concerns related to HPV, you should consult a healthcare professional. The doctor can assess the type, prevalence, and potential effects of the infection.
Treat Genital Warts: If you have genital warts as a result of HPV infection, they should be treated by a healthcare professional. HPV treatment is usually done by dermatologists or sexual health specialists. Treatment options may include cryotherapy (freezing), electrosurgery (burning), laser treatment, or surgical removal.
Get HPV Vaccination: If you have not been vaccinated yet and are eligible based on age, it is important to get vaccinated against HPV. HPV vaccines provide protection against specific HPV types and can help prevent serious health problems such as cervical cancer. They are generally administered to young people and young adults.
Strengthen the Immune System: The immune system is important in fighting infections. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep can help strengthen the immune system. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also support the immune system. Natural products that have been scientifically proven to support the immune system and increase the success of HPV treatment by acting on the immune system include active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) and green tea extract. AHCC is an important functional food and treatment support product in Eastern medicine, and it is also available in our country.
Undergo Regular Screenings: Especially if you have been exposed to high-risk HPV types or are at risk for cervical cancer, it is important to undergo regular cervical screenings (Pap smear) and HPV screenings. These screenings are critical for early diagnosis and treatment.
Adhere to Sexual Health Principles: Take precautions to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections by adhering to sexual health principles. This includes using condoms during sexual activity, asking about sexual partners’ sexual health history, and regularly getting sexual health check-ups.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice: Consider your doctor’s advice regarding HPV infection or other health problems associated with HPV. Follow the recommended treatment or monitoring plans.
HPV infection and its outcomes are personal and can vary for each individual. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional to assess your health status and risk.
What Can Be Done to Prevent HPV Virus?
Preventing the HPV virus completely can be difficult, but there are measures you can take to reduce the risk of infection. Here are some things you can do to avoid triggering HPV infection or minimize the risk:
Get HPV Vaccination: HPV vaccines provide protection against specific HPV types. If you are within the age range and recommended vaccine schedule, getting vaccinated can reduce your risk of infection. They are generally administered to young people and young adults.
Sexual Health Education: Getting sexual health education helps raise awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Knowing the sexual health history of your partners and engaging in open communication can reduce the risk of infection.
Use Condoms During Sexual Contact: Using condoms is an effective way to protect against sexually transmitted infections. However, HPV may not be completely preventable as the virus can even be present on the skin outside the areas of contact.
Fidelity: Fidelity between sexual partners can reduce the risk of spreading HPV and other STIs. Having fewer sexual partners can reduce the risk of infection.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of more serious consequences of HPV infection. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of infection.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help strengthen the immune system. This includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, getting enough sleep, and avoiding stress.
Undergo Regular Screenings: Especially if you are at risk for cervical cancer or have been exposed to high-risk HPV types, regular cervical screenings (Pap smear) and HPV screenings are important. These screenings are critical for early diagnosis and treatment.
Limit Contact with HPV-Infected Partners: If your partner has an HPV infection, limiting contact and taking protective measures can reduce the risk of infection.
Keep in mind that HPV is a very common virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact. Therefore, complete prevention may not always be possible. However, the above measures can reduce the risk of infection and lower the risk of health problems associated with HPV. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional for more information and advice.
