What is HPV (Human Papillomavirus)?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a sexually transmitted virus. HPV viruses are a family of multiple types of viruses that affect the skin and mucous membranes. There are several variations of HPV, some of which can cause infections while others may not cause any symptoms.
The most common symptom is warts that appear in the genital area or around the anus. However, most HPV infections are silent, and a person may not experience any signs or symptoms.
Some types of HPV can cause cancer. It can lead to cervical cancer in women and cancer of the penis, anus, and throat in men. If not diagnosed and treated early, these cancers can be serious.
The best way to protect against HPV infections is to limit sexual activity and use condoms. However, this does not provide definitive protection. The HPV vaccine is available for young men and women, and vaccination before sexual activity is recommended.
HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and prevention or early diagnosis is possible through healthy sexual practices and regular screening.
What are HPV Types?
HPV types are classified into two main groups: low-risk and high-risk, based on the effects they cause in the body. Low-risk types mostly cause benign lesions such as genital warts, while high-risk HPV types play a significant role in the development of some types of cancer.
HPV 16 and 18, in particular, are responsible for the vast majority of cervical cancer cases. In addition, HPV types such as 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 are also in the high-risk group, which can cause cancer. The HPV type is critical in determining a person’s risk level.
HPV types are:
HPV 6 and 11:
The most common cause of genital warts. They are considered low-risk and have a low probability of causing cancer.
HPV 16 and 18:
These are the high-risk HPV types most associated with cervical cancer and other genital cancers. They can cause precancerous cellular changes.
HPV 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68:
They are in the high-risk group. In addition to cervical cancer, they can also cause cancers of the anus, penis, vagina, vulva, and mouth and throat.
HPV 26, 53, 66, 67, 70, 73, and 82:
They are moderate-risk types. While not directly linked to cancer development, they can be monitored in some cases.
HPV 40, 42, 43, 44, 54, 61, 72, and 81:
They are considered low-risk. They can cause warts and mild lesions in the genital area, but their likelihood of developing into cancer is quite low.
Knowing which HPV type you have is important for monitoring your health and planning the necessary precautions. This risk can be managed with expert control and regular screening tests when necessary.
How is HPV Transmitted?
The most common way HPV is transmitted is through sexual contact. The virus is transmitted to a partner through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person. HPV can be easily transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
Even if intercourse is not complete, close skin-to-skin contact and friction can be sufficient for the virus to be transmitted. An HPV-infected person can transmit the virus to their partner even if they don’t show any symptoms.
HPV cannot survive long outside the body; therefore, transmission via shared objects or surfaces is unlikely. However, in rare cases, it is thought that the virus can be transmitted through the sharing of personal items such as towels and underwear that have been in contact with the infected genital area.
While there is a theoretical risk of transmission in moist environments such as public restrooms or bathhouses, if hygiene conditions are inadequate, this is extremely rare.
If an expectant mother has an active HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, there is a possibility of transmission to her baby during birth.
Especially if the mother has active genital warts (due to HPV 6 or 11) in the birth canal, the baby may be exposed to HPV during vaginal delivery. This condition can, in rare cases, lead to warts in the larynx (Juvenile Laryngeal Papillomatosis) in the baby. Therefore, in some cases where active genital HPV infection is detected during pregnancy, doctors may recommend a cesarean section.
What are The Symptoms of What is HPV (Human Papillomavirus)?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection often progresses asymptomatically, but in some cases, it can lead to various health problems. While the most common symptom is warts, different symptoms can occur depending on the type of virus and the infected area.
symptoms include:
HPV Symptoms in Women:
HPV infections in women often progress asymptomatically. However, in some cases, warts can appear around the vulva, vagina, cervix, or anus. These warts can be single or multiple, flat or cauliflower-shaped, and their size can vary from person to person; sometimes very small ones are barely visible, while others can be larger and more noticeable.
HPV infection in women sometimes has no visible symptoms. However, abnormal cell changes detected during regular gynecological checkups can be an important warning sign. Pap smears, in particular, can help detect HPV-related cellular changes in the cervix at an early stage.
High-risk HPV types generally don’t cause any noticeable physical symptoms; therefore, regular screening, even if there are no symptoms, is crucial for women’s health.
Regular health checkups can help detect (Human Papillomavirus) infection in women early and prevent potential complications. If symptoms such as warts are observed or abnormal Pap smear results are detected, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional immediately.
HPV Symptoms in Men:
HPV infections in men often progress without any symptoms and can be cleared by the body on their own. However, when the virus persists in the body, the most common symptom is warts that develop on the penis, scrotum, around the anus, or, rarely, in the throat.
These warts can be single or multiple and can sometimes have a flat, raised, or cauliflower-like appearance. Warts or lesions can also occasionally appear in areas such as the mouth and throat.
There is no routine HPV screening test for men. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional immediately if you notice any warts, skin changes, or unusual lesions in the genital area or around the anus. High-risk HPV types can persist in the body for long periods without symptoms and can cause cellular changes that can later lead to serious health problems such as penile cancer.
Early diagnosis and regular health checkups can prevent potential complications and prevent the spread of the virus. Because HPV infections are difficult to detect, especially in men with no symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional if suspicious changes on the skin or mucous membranes are observed.
HPV Symptoms in Children:
HPV in children can be transmitted from mother to baby during birth or through skin-to-skin contact. Children may develop warts on the hands, feet, or face. These warts are painless in most cases and can be removed with treatment. In rare cases, a condition called papillomatosis occurs in the respiratory tract. This can cause symptoms such as hoarseness or difficulty breathing.
What Factors Increase the Spread of HPV Infection?
80% of HPV infections resolve within one year, and 90% within two years, without requiring any intervention.
In 8-9% of these patients, the infection persists for more than two years, and less than 1% of all patients develop invasive cervical cancer within a few years.
The time from HPV infection to cervical cancer is usually decades. However, in very rare cases, cancer can develop in a shorter period.
Factors that prevent HPV infection from resolving spontaneously and contribute to its spread include:
Sexual Activities:
The most common way HPV is transmitted is through sexual contact. The risk is higher in individuals who have multiple sexual partners or who began sexual intercourse at an early age.
Unprotected sex significantly increases the risk of HPV transmission.
Immune System:
A weak immune system can reduce the body’s resistance to HPV and contribute to the spread of the infection.
Illnesses that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, or the use of immunosuppressive medications increase the risk.
Smoking:
Smoking weakens the immune system, reducing resistance to HPV infection.
Also increases the risk of HPV-related cancers.
Other Sexually Transmitted Infections:
The presence of other sexually transmitted infections can increase the risk of HPV transmission and facilitate the spread of infection.
Lifestyle Factors:
Lifestyle factors such as fatigue, stress, and poor nutrition can weaken the immune system and reduce resistance to HPV infection.
Hormonal Conditions:
During periods of hormonal fluctuation, such as pregnancy, the immune system is weakened, making HPV infection more easily spread.
Personal Hygiene:
In some cases, poor personal hygiene can indirectly increase the risk of HPV transmission.
Cancer Treatments and Steroid Drug Use:
Cancer treatments, chemotherapy, and radiation weaken the immune system.
Long-term use of steroid medications weakens the immune system.
What are HPV-Related Cancers?
Cervical Cancer:
This is the most common type of cancer caused by HPV.
More than 99% of cervical cancers are due to HPV infection.
Regular Pap smear tests and HPV screenings are vital for early diagnosis.
Vaginal Cancer:
This is rare in women.
It develops primarily in the upper part of the vagina.
Most cases are caused by high-risk HPV types.
Vulva Cancer:
This occurs on the female external genitalia.
Although it is most common in older women, it can also develop in younger women who are HPV-positive.
Penile Cancer:
This is rare, but a significant number of cases are associated with HPV.
The risk is generally higher in uncircumcised men.
Anal Cancer:
This can occur in both men and women. The risk is particularly high in individuals who engage in anal sex and in HIV-positive individuals.
90% of anal cancer cases are due to HPV infection.
Mouth, Throat, and Head and Neck Cancers:
(Oral, oropharyngeal, tonsil, base of tongue, etc.)
HPV can be transmitted through oral sex.
HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers are increasing.
This type of cancer is more common in men.
How is HPV Diagnosed?
HPV is diagnosed through a physical examination, Pap smear, HPV test, colposcopy, and biopsy. Because the infection often has no symptoms, regular checkups are very important.
Physical Examination:
Your gynecologist will check the genital area for warts or abnormal lesions. If a wart is seen, it may be a sign of HPV.
Pap Smear Test:
This is a test performed to screen women for cervical cancer. Cell samples taken from the cervix are examined in a laboratory. The test can detect abnormal cell changes.
HPV Test:
This is used to determine the presence and type of the virus. It is usually performed in conjunction with a Pap smear or in cases of abnormal Pap smear results. It is effective in detecting high-risk virus types.
Colposcopy:
This procedure is used to obtain a magnified image of the cervix. This allows for better visualization of abnormal areas and the possibility of obtaining a biopsy.
Biopsy:
A sample of abnormal tissue is taken and examined under a microscope. It is used for definitive diagnosis.
How is HPV Treated?
There is no direct antiviral treatment for HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection. However, warts and lesions caused by HPV are treatable, and screening and follow-up are important to prevent serious complications such as cervical cancer.
Wart Treatment:
Topical Medications:
Doctor-prescribed creams or solutions can help shrink or disappear warts.
Cryotherapy (Freezing):
Warts are destroyed by freezing them with liquid nitrogen.
Electrocautery (Burning):
Warts are burned off using electric current.
Laser Therapy:
Warts are destroyed with laser light.
Surgical Removal:
Large or resistant warts can be surgically removed.
Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment:
Pap Smears:
Performed regularly to detect abnormal changes in cervical cells. Colposcopy:
This procedure is used to more closely examine the cervix in women with abnormal Pap smear results.
Biopsy:
A tissue sample is taken from suspicious lesions and examined in a laboratory setting.
LEEP (Loop Electrocautery Excision Procedure):
A thin, electrically heated wire loop is used to remove abnormal cells.
Conization:
This procedure involves the removal of cone-shaped tissue from the cervix.
Cancer Treatment:
If cervical cancer is diagnosed, cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy are applied.
What is The HPV Vaccine? And Who Can I Get It?
The HPV vaccine is a vaccine that protects against HPV infection and provides immunity against certain high-risk types of the virus. This vaccine can include the most common cancer-causing HPV types (such as 16 and 18) as well as the types that cause warts (6 and 11). There are several different types of HPV vaccines used in our country and around the world (such as the two-valent, four-valent, or nine-valent vaccine), but all of them aim to prevent the development of HPV (Human Papillomavirus)-related cancer and warts.
What are The Types of HPV Vaccine?
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Gardasil 4 (Quadrivalent):
Protects against: HPV 6, 11, 16, 18
Protects against both warts and cancer types.
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Gardasil 9 (Nonavalent):
Protects against: HPV 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58
This is the most comprehensive vaccine. It is the most preferred vaccine.
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Cervarix
Protects against: HPV 16, 18
Only protects against cancer. It does not protect against warts.
It is no longer used in some countries.
The recommended groups and age ranges for HPV vaccination are as follows:
Adolescence (Ages 9-14):
The World Health Organization and many national health authorities recommend that the HPV vaccine should ideally be administered to children (girls and boys) between the ages of 9 and 14. During this age, the immune system is young and the response is strong. Furthermore, when this vaccine is administered before the onset of sexual activity, protection against the virus is generally provided before the person is exposed to it. In this age group, the vaccine can be administered in two doses (the second dose 6 months after the first).
Young Adults (Ages 15-26):
If not vaccinated during adolescence, it is recommended that both men and women receive the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine until age 26. For full immunity to develop in this age group, the vaccine is administered in three doses (at 0, 2, and 6 months). Even if a person is sexually active, the vaccine can still provide protection against HPV types they have not yet encountered. Therefore, it is important for everyone under the age of 26 to receive the vaccine.
Adults (Ages 27-45):
Some individuals over the age of 26 who have not received the HPV vaccine may also benefit from the vaccine. Especially for those who have multiple sexual partners or are at high risk of HPV exposure, the vaccine can be administered up to age 45.
While the effectiveness of the vaccine in this age group is slightly lower than in younger people, it can still provide protection. Between the ages of 27 and 45, the decision to vaccinate is made on an individual basis, based on the individual’s risk factors and a doctor’s assessment.
The HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys. While initial vaccination programs primarily targeted girls, vaccinating boys not only protects them from penile, anal, and oropharynx cancers that can be caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) , but also indirectly protects women by reducing viral circulation in the community.
The vaccine is usually administered by injection into the arm muscle. Common vaccines do not contain live virus; they induce immunity against specific proteins of the virus. Therefore, the HPV vaccine does not cause infection or cancer.
In summary, the HPV vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine recommended for childhood and adolescence. Even in countries that have not yet included it in the national vaccination schedule, families can obtain the vaccine for a fee by consulting their doctor. Vaccination can help prevent many HPV-related cancers and warts, especially cervical cancer, in the future.
What are The Side Effects of the HPV Vaccine?
Although the HPV vaccine is generally considered safe, as with any vaccine, some side effects can occur. These are usually mild and temporary.
The most common side effects are:
Pain, Redness, or Swelling at the Shot Site:
Mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site is common.
Fever:
Some people may experience a mild fever.
Headache:
Headache is also a possible side effect.
Fatigue:
Weakness or a feeling of tiredness may occur.
Muscle Aches:
Mild muscle aches may occur.
Nausea:
Rarely, nausea may also occur.
Fainting:
Fainting can occur after vaccination, especially in younger people. Therefore, it is important to rest for 15-20 minutes after vaccination.
In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. However, these are extremely rare.
Allergic Reactions:
Rarely, serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may occur.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS):
This is a very rare nervous system disease.
Who Should Not Get the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is generally safe, but it is not recommended for certain individuals. The vaccine should not be administered to individuals who have had severe reactions to any component of the vaccine. Pregnant women are also not recommended for the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine. Additional doses of the vaccine can be completed after birth. While the potential consequences of the vaccine continue to develop during birth, vaccination should be postponed after birth to minimize the presence of the vaccine in the baby.
Where is The HPV Vaccine Given?
The HPV vaccine is readily available through hospitals and health centers. Public and private hospitals are among the locations where the vaccine can be administered. Family health centers are also a suitable option for HPV vaccination. These health institutions aim to increase the availability of the vaccine and provide protection against HPV in the community.
Hospitals and Health Centers:
The HPV vaccine can be administered through hospitals and health centers. While it can be administered in public hospitals, vaccination services are also offered in private hospitals. These healthcare facilities aim to provide public protection against HPV (Human Papillomavirus) by facilitating access to the vaccine. Individuals wishing to be vaccinated can obtain information and schedule an appointment by contacting the nearest hospital or health center.
Family Health Centers:
Family Health Centers are another important place where the HPV vaccine can be administered. These centers provide the necessary information and guidance about the vaccine. Factors such as the quality of healthcare services, hygiene standards, and the availability of specialist doctors are important when choosing a vaccination center.
Before the vaccination, it is important to share information about your health and past allergic reactions with your doctor.
There are many options available for the HPV vaccine, including hospitals, health centers, and family health centers. For the vaccine to be effective, it is important that it be administered in the appropriate place, at the right time, and in the correct manner. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your healthcare provider to obtain information about the vaccine and schedule an appointment.
What are the Ways to Protect Yourself from HPV?
Protecting yourself from HPV infection means protecting yourself from both warts and the risk of serious cancer in the long term.
Effective methods for protecting yourself from HPV are listed below:
Get the HPV Vaccine:
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is to get the HPV vaccine if you are in the appropriate age group. The vaccine defends your body against the most dangerous types of HPV. If you are vaccinated before you start having sex, your body will be prepared before you encounter the virus. Even if you are sexually active, the vaccine can protect against HPV types you haven’t yet been exposed to. If possible, have both you and your children (boys and girls) enrolled in the vaccination program when they reach the appropriate age.
Use Condoms:
Provides protection against many sexually transmitted infections, including HPV. Correct and regular condom use reduces the risk of HPV (Human Papillomavirus) transmission, but it doesn’t prevent it completely. Because condoms don’t cover the entire genital area, they can leave areas where the virus can be transmitted through unprotected skin contact. However, using a condom during sexual intercourse is highly recommended, as it significantly reduces the risk of infection, including HPV.
Limit the Number of Sexual Partners:
Unprotected sex with multiple partners increases the risk of exposure to HPV. Opt for monogamy (a mutually monogamous relationship) whenever possible. Be mindful of your partner’s fidelity and health. Before starting a new relationship, it may be beneficial for both partners to be tested for sexually transmitted infections.
Get Regular Health Checkups:
For women, having regular Pap smears and, if necessary, HPV tests can help detect infections early and resolve them without causing problems. Pap smears are crucial because they can reveal changes in the cervix that HPV can cause. Have gynecological exams and screenings as frequently as your doctor recommends. Men should also consult a doctor immediately if they notice any warts or lesions in their genital area.
Keep Your Immune System Strong:
A healthy lifestyle is the body’s greatest aid in fighting infections. A balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and avoiding stress help strengthen the immune system. A strong immune system can help clear the virus more easily from the body, even if you have contracted HPV. Quitting smoking is also important in preventing the harmful effects of HPV by boosting the immunity of cells in the cervical region. Women who smoke have a higher risk of persistent infection and cancer from HPV.
Be Careful with Personal Hygiene and Shared Use of Items:
Although HPV transmission through shared items is rare, it’s always a good idea to follow general hygiene practices. Avoid sharing other people’s personal items, such as underwear and towels. Choose public areas (such as pools, saunas, and Turkish baths) where general hygiene is maintained.
Post Sex in Suspicious Situations:
If you notice lesions, such as warts, on your partner’s genital area, it’s wise to postpone sexual intercourse until they are treated. After the warts are treated and your doctor approves, you can continue having protected sexual intercourse.
