Truth About H.P.V.

HPV stands for Human papillomavirus. It is one of the most common viral infections of the reproductive tract. There are about 200 types of virus, out of which around 40 types of virus infect the genital of humans which include anus, scrotum, cervix, vagina, vulva, and penis. These kinds of HPV are transmitted through sexual contacts.

HPV is very common these days, especially in third world nations. The symptoms are not much clear hence one doesn’t realize about the same. In fact, most people contract this at some point in life. They don’t notice any significant symptom except small warts hence they feel totally fine.

Treatment
If your doctor finds any abnormal growth of cells in your genital then she may examine that for a long time to see any cancer like tendency. Sometimes abnormal cells go away, so she might apply wait and see approach to confirm. Once assured, she will may one of these techniques:-

1. Cryotherapy which involves freezing the abnormal growth will liquid nitrogen, the temperature of liquid nitrogen is below -170 degree Celsius which allows it to retard the growth of cancerous cells.

2.Conization is a process in which surgeon removes the infected part surgically.

3.Laser therapy or radiation therapy is a process in which doctor uses highly polarized laser to burn the abnormalities away.

4.LEEP or Loop Electrical excision procedure is a process in which electric current is used to remove all the abnormal cells including one which is infected with HPV.

Vaccination
There are two vaccinations that have been approved by FDA to counter HPV. They are GARDASIL and GARDASIL-9. Both differ in their ability to counter. While GARDASIL can counter 90% of genital warts, its predecessor GARDASIL-9 can counter 5 more types of viruses. CERVARIX is another type of vaccine which is available, it is similar to GARDASIL but has less number of virus cover. GARDASIL is a better option.

Prevention
I.Women should take pap tests regularly, Pap test provide better results and can help in early detection of cancerous tendency.

II.Men and women should stop sexual contact as soon as they realize that they are suffering from HPV. Contraceptives like condoms are not effective for areas around your scrotum, vagina, vulva or anus.

III.Vaccination is the best way to prevent the infection. Consult a doctor as soon as possible. GARASIL vaccines are clinically proven and child can be vaccinated at a tender age of 9.

Conclusion
Remember, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease which has no severe consequences. Although its goes away on its own, but one should definitely visit gynaecologist if the symptoms persist. Most people who have sex get HPV in some point of their life. So, there is no need to feel shy or afraid. Keeping some prevention points in mind will help you to lead a better life.