WHAT IS HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses that can infect humans. Some types of HPV are sexually transmitted and can cause genital warts, while other types can cause certain types of cancer, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection prevalent among young people, with about half of new infections occurring in people between the ages of 15 and 24.
While most people with HPV do not experience any symptoms, the virus can still be transmitted to sexual partners. This is why it is important for individuals to get vaccinated against HPV and to practice safe sex, including using condoms and dental dams, to reduce their risk of infection.
Can HPV BE TREATED?
There are two vaccines available to protect against HPV: Gardasil and Cervarix. Both vaccines are highly effective in preventing the types of HPV that can cause cancer, and are recommended for preteens and teenagers. It is important to note that the HPV vaccine is most effective when given before an individual becomes sexually active.
If you have been diagnosed with HPV, it is important to follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider. In most cases, the virus goes away on its own and does not cause any long-term health problems. However, if HPV does not clear up on its own, it can lead to the development of certain types of cancer. For this reason, it is important to get regular screenings, such as Pap tests, to detect any changes in the cells of the cervix, anus, or throat. I will recommend you book an appointment with Essence Medical Laboratory to get screened for HPV, we have the fastest turn around time as we make use of ultra modern technology with a cutting edge professionals.
SYMPTOMS OF HPV and transmision
Most people with HPV do not experience any symptoms and do not know they are infected. In some cases, the virus may go away on its own without causing any long-term health problems. However, in other cases, HPV can lead to the development of certain types of cancer.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider:
Genital warts: Some types of HPV can cause genital warts, which are small, flesh-coloured or gray growths that can appear on the genitals, anus, or mouth.
Abnormal Pap test results: Pap tests can detect changes in the cells of the cervix that may be caused by HPV. If you have abnormal Pap test results, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider for further testing and treatment.
Other cancer symptoms: HPV can also cause certain types of cancer, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer. Symptoms of these cancers may include abnormal bleeding, pain, lumps, or changes in bowel or bladder habits.
Again, it is important to note that most people with HPV do not experience any symptoms. The best way to detect HPV and prevent the development of cancer is to get vaccinated and to get regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests.
5 ways to prevent HPV
Here are five ways to prevent HPV:
Get vaccinated: As mentioned above, there are two vaccines available to protect against HPV: Gardasil and Cervarix. Both vaccines are highly effective in preventing the types of HPV that can cause cancer. It is recommended that preteens and teenagers receive the HPV vaccine.
Practice safe sex: Using condoms and dental dams every time you have sex can reduce your risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Limit your number of sexual partners: The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of contracting HPV. Limiting your number of sexual partners can reduce your risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Don’t smoke: Smoking can increase your risk of developing HPV-related cancer. If you do smoke, quitting can help reduce your risk.
Get regular screenings: Regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can help detect any changes in the cells of the cervix, anus, or throat that may be caused by HPV. Early detection and treatment can help prevent the development of cancer.
We are excited to invite you to come in to Essence Medical Laboratory for your HPV screenings. As you may know, HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause certain types of cancer, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer. It is important to detect and treat HPV as early as possible to reduce the risk of cancer.
At Essence Medical Laboratory, we offer convenient, affordable HPV screenings to help you take control of your reproductive health. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure that you feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the process.
