What Is HPV?
HPV Infection
HPV, also known as genital human papillomavirus infection, is transmitted through sexual contact. It is a viral infection responsible for the development of genital warts known as “condyloma” and various genital cancers, and it must be taken seriously. Its incidence has been increasing steadily, especially among young people, including in our country.
What is HPV? HPV is a virus that affects the skin and mucous membranes, is transmitted through sexual contact, and most commonly causes infection in the genital area. There are currently more than 300 known and classified subtypes of HPV.
Low-risk types: HPV types 6 and 11 most commonly cause genital warts. Although HPV 6 and HPV 11 are known as low-risk types, their cancer risk is low.
High-risk types: HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, and 52 are considered high-risk HPV types and can cause cellular changes in the cervix. The most common and highest-risk types are HPV 16 and HPV 18. These can lead to cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and some head and neck cancers. HPV is detected in 95% of individuals with cervical cancer.
Among female cancers, cervical cancer (servical cancer) ranks among the most common, and its most important cause is HPV infection. Therefore, when genital warts caused by HPV are detected, treatment should be started without delay and regular follow-up should be performed, including Pap smear testing and colposcopic examination when necessary.
Diseases Caused by the HPV Virus
Genital warts (Condyloma acuminata): HPV infection, particularly low-risk types such as HPV 6 and HPV 11, can cause warts in the genital area. These warts are commonly seen on the external genital organs, anus, and surrounding regions.
Cervical cancer: HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer and precancerous lesions (LSIL and HSIL). High-risk HPV types are especially associated with cervical cancer. With vaccination and early detection, cervical cancer is a disease that can be prevented or successfully treated.
Cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, and anus: In women, HPV can cause vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer (external genital cancer), and anal cancer in addition to cervical cancer. In men, it can lead to penile and anal cancers. High-risk HPV types are associated with these cancers. The risk of anal cancer is higher in individuals with HIV infection.
Head and neck cancers: HPV infection can cause cancers of the mouth, throat, tongue, and tonsils, and it is also considered an important factor in some lung cancers.
Modes of HPV Transmission
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) can be transmitted in different ways.
Sexual contact: The most common mode of HPV transmission is sexual contact. HPV can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse with an infected partner. Unprotected sexual activity and lack of vaccination increase the risk of transmission.
Skin-to-skin contact: Some HPV types can also be transmitted through skin contact. Touching areas with genital warts (condyloma acuminata) may spread the infection. HPV types transmitted this way are generally low risk.
During childbirth: HPV can be transmitted from a mother with extensive warts to her baby during vaginal delivery. In such cases, the baby may develop infections and warts in the throat. To prevent transmission, cesarean delivery may be recommended. If the infection occurred long before delivery and the warts were treated, vaginal delivery may be possible.
Sexual objects: HPV may also be transmitted through sexual objects. Therefore, sex toys used by others should not be shared.
Can HPV Be Transmitted Through Epilation Devices or Waxing?
HPV is transmitted through direct contact between skin or mucosal surfaces. Therefore, while it is theoretically possible for HPV to be transmitted through epilation devices or waxing, the risk is very low. The virus can enter the body through micro-cuts or open wounds in the skin.
Waxing, in particular, can cause small skin injuries, which may increase the risk of transmission. However, proper hygiene significantly reduces this risk. Using single-use waxing sticks or heads and thoroughly cleaning and sterilizing devices after each use is important.
In conclusion, although the risk of HPV transmission through epilation devices or waxing is low, adherence to hygiene rules further minimizes the risk.
HPV INFECTION
How Common Is HPV Transmission?
A large proportion of people will experience HPV infection at least once in their lifetime. HPV transmission is very common worldwide. Approximately 70–80% of sexually active adults become infected with HPV at some point. HPV infection is particularly common among young people aged 15–24.
The frequency of HPV transmission varies depending on age, sexual activity, virus type, and risk factors. The risk of transmission increases with the number of sexual partners. Individuals with multiple sexual partners have a higher risk of acquiring HPV, as each partner may carry different HPV types, increasing the likelihood of multiple infections.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV infection or undergoing cancer treatment, have a higher risk of HPV infection. Previously vaccinated individuals have a lower risk of viral transmission.
How Is HPV Treated?
There is no specific treatment that eliminates the HPV virus itself; treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications caused by the infection. Since different HPV types cause different health problems, treatment approaches vary depending on the lesions present.
1. Treatment of Genital Warts:
Genital warts caused by HPV infection can be controlled with various treatment methods. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the type, size, and location of the warts.
Topical treatments: Doctor-prescribed topical medications may be used directly on the warts to reduce or eliminate them. Common medications include podophyllin, imiquimod, and sinecatechins.
Cryotherapy: This method involves freezing the warts using liquid nitrogen, causing them to fall off.
Surgical methods: Surgical removal of warts, laser therapy, or electrocauterization (burning with electric current) may also be used.
2. Cervical Changes:
HPV can cause precancerous lesions in the cervix or other mucosal areas. Some precancerous changes are monitored, while others require surgical treatment.
Regular screening: HPV can lead to cellular changes that may progress to cervical cancer. Regular Pap smear and HPV tests are used to monitor these changes.
Colposcopy: If Pap smear results are abnormal, colposcopy may be performed to examine the cervix more closely. This procedure uses a lighted microscope to magnify the cervix, and biopsies may be taken to diagnose cervical changes.
Therapeutic interventions: If abnormal cellular changes are detected, affected areas of the cervix may be removed using laser therapy, LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure), or conization.
3. Immune System Support:
Immune system: Most HPV infections are cleared naturally by a healthy immune system within a few years. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep) can support immune clearance of HPV.
4. Vaccines:
Preventive vaccines: HPV vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection. The vaccine provides protection against the most common and cancer-associated HPV types. It is generally recommended for adolescents before sexual activity, but can also be administered to adults in certain age groups.
5. Follow-up and Support:
Regular check-ups: Individuals who test positive for HPV should be regularly monitored by their physician, including HPV testing and Pap smear screening when necessary.
Psychological support: Receiving an HPV diagnosis may cause stress and anxiety for some individuals. Psychological support can be beneficial in such cases.