Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the causative agent of the infection, which subsequently becomes chronic. Once in the body of a healthy person, he can remain in a "sleeping" state for quite a long time until the appearance of favorable conditions that provoke the development of the disease.
HPV in women. Symptoms and causes of infection
Mostly human papillomavirus infection spreads sexually. But you can enter it into the body through the mucous membranes or skin, if the outer layer of the epidermis is damaged. This can happen if you use one towel, bedding or underwear with a carrier of infection. The mother is also able to transmit this disease to the baby during childbirth.
Who is to blame for the fact that HPV enters the body? In women, the symptoms of the manifestation of the disease, primarily, are the result of their own inattentive attitude towards themselves. Accidental sexual intercourse, frequent change of partners, and sometimes non-compliance with hygiene rules are the main causes of infection. But there are several factors that contribute to the development of the virus:
- decreased immunity as a result of a viral disease or hypothermia ;
- abortions
- surgical interventions;
- various kinds of medical manipulations, such as the introduction of intrauterine contraceptives.
How does HPV manifest itself in women? Symptoms are most often common, not everyone pays attention to them. It can be causeless spotting from the vagina or the appearance of warts. A person usually does not even know about his infection. But the virus is the cause of one of the following pathologies:
- squamous metaplasia;
- cervical cancer;
- genital or confluent warts;
- dysplasia;
- cervical erosion;
- warts.
What is the danger of a virus?
Asymptomatic course is the main danger of HPV. Symptoms in women (photos are attached to the article) can occur only three months after infection. And they are identified most often during a routine examination by a gynecologist. Contraceptives do not give a 100% guarantee of protection against HPV, since the size of the virus is many times smaller than the pores of a condom. Moreover, there is a high risk of infection through exposed areas of the body.
What are the consequences of HPV in women? Symptoms of a general nature will eventually lead to more serious problems. In addition to the possible development of oncology, human papillomavirus infection adversely affects the reproductive function of women, leading either to its decline or to complete disruption. It can cause miscarriage, infertility, fetal growth retardation and postpartum complications. That is why it is so important to undergo a full examination before conceiving a child.
Is HPV treated in women?
The high level of development of medical technology helps to cope with many infections. But in the case of HPV, no one gives a guarantee of a complete cure for the disease. The virus remains in the body forever.
Treatment is reduced to removal of skin neoplasms with subsequent histological examination. Next, the doctor prescribes complex therapy, which includes strengthening the immune system and taking antiviral drugs. If a human papillomavirus is detected in a woman , an examination and her sexual partner are necessary.