By the Health Center
A patient has just learned she has an abnormal Pap smear and had tested positive for human papillomavirus, HPV, a sexually transmitted disease. She suddenly has so many questions: How could this have happened? What is HPV? I wonder which partner gave this to me? Can I pass this on to another person? Is there a cure? Will I be able to have children? Why me?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus, a family of more than 80 viruses, about one-third of which cause genital problems that affect both males and females. HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact and skin-to-skin contact. These problems include genital warts and cell changes, especially in the cervix of women. In a relatively small percentage of cases, the cell changes can be precancerous. Many times the warts are not visible to the naked eye. In other cases, they may look like small, hard spots or take on a fleshy cauliflower-like appearance.
Genital warts are treated in a variety of ways depending on the size and location of the warts, the areas that need to be treated and the preferences of the clinician and patient. Treatment of cervical lesions hinges on a variety of factors, including the severity of the diagnosis and the risk of sexual transmission. Whether the lesions are treated or observed, it’s important to comply with the clinician’s recommendation. HPV lesions can be eliminated by proper treatment and follow-up, however, the virus may not be totally eliminated from the body. The goal of treatment is to enhance control of the virus by the immune system.
If you are already infected, these suggestions may help you control the development of lesions and the spread of HPV to others. Abstaining from sexual intercourse is the surest way to avoid infection. Always use a latex condom. Avoid touching any visible warts. Control use of alcohol and other mood-altering drugs that may cloud your ability to make safer decisions about sex. Have regular check-ups. Take care of your body by eating nutritionally, getting enough sleep, exercise regularly and examine yourself often.
— Needs some healthy hints? Call the Health Center at ext. 4316.
January 30, 2003