|
Genital HPV infection is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the name of the group of viruses that includes over 100 different types, over 30 of which are sexually transmitted. Certain types of these viruses are "high-risk" and may cause abnormal Pap smears and cancer of the cervix, anus, and penis. Other types of these viruses cause genital warts. Visible genital warts look like a small hard bump or cluster of bumps. They start off as small painless spots but warmth and moisture can make them grow larger. Some cannot be seen by the naked eye. The types of HPV that cause external genital warts that are not linked with cancer. Two strains of HPV have been linked to cervical cancer. Generally, as many as 70 percent of all sexually experienced people may have one of many genital warts viruses; less than one percent of these infected people will develop visible warts.
Most people who have a genital HPV infection don't know they are infected. Others get visible genital warts. Genital warts can be found on the vulva, on the cervix, in or around the vagina or anus, and on the penis, scrotum, groin, or thigh. The types of HPV that infect the genital area are spread through sexual contact with someone who is infected. Most women are diagnosed with HPV on the basis of abnormal Pap smears. There is no "cure" for HPV. Diagnosis of genital warts is usually made by a direct visual exam; however, there is a magnification procedure for locating warts on the cervix. Genital warts can be treated easily with cryotherapy (dry ice treatment). Drugs like podophyllin solution and trichloracetic acid (TCA) can also be used directly on the warts. Not having sex at all is the only 100 percent effective, foolproof method of preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). HPV infections can occur in genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom. They can also occur in areas that are not covered or protected. Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of HPV infection only when the infected areas are covered or protected by the condom. In addition, the use of latex condoms has been associated with a reduction in risk of HPV-associated diseases, including genital warts and cervical cancer. |
