Heights OBGYN

HPV

HPV, or human papillomavirus, can cause different types of cancer, including cervical cancer

There are more than 100 different types of human papillomaviruses, and approximately 40 of them cause genital problems, including vulvar, vaginal, anal and cervical cancer, as well as genital warts. Exposure to HPV during oral sex can cause oropharyngeal cancer that affects the back of the throat, tonsils and tongue. Our San Antonio OBGYNs want patients to understand the virus, the importance of testing and how to prevent infection.

Transmission and symptoms

People spread the types of human papillomaviruses that affect the genitals during skin-to-skin contact that occurs during vaginal sexual intercourse, as well as during oral and anal sex.

Usually, women with this virus don’t have any symptoms. The type of virus that causes genital warts does cause growths or bumps in the genital and rectal area. It’s vital for patients to schedule annual wellness appointments and keep up with cancer screening and Pap smears. Regular check-ups and monitoring help our San Antonio OBGYNs detect changes that may lead to cancer in the earliest, most treatable stages.

Our San Antonio OBGYNs provide testing, monitoring and treatment

There are three types of tests for human papillomavirus in women.

  • HPV/Pap cotesting. Our OBGYNs perform this test by taking cells from your cervix during an HPV/Pap cotest. The human papillomavirus test allows the pathologist to detect human papillomavirus DNA in the cells, while the Pap smear helps them check for precancerous or cervical cancer cells.
  • Human papillomavirus test alone. Sometimes, women get the HPV test only. Patients who receive normal test results usually only need to repeat the test every five years.
  • Cervical biopsy. When Pap smear results are abnormal, our OBGYNs may recommend a cervical biopsy to remove cervical tissue. Pathologists examine the tissue to determine whether the cells are precancerous, cancerous or a high-risk human papillomavirus.

Currently, there is no treatment method to get rid of human papillomavirus. Our physicians monitor the condition to detect any cancer that develops. They can perform minimally invasive procedures to remove genital warts or abnormal cells when necessary.

Preventing HPV

The human papillomavirus vaccine can prevent infection. Our physicians recommend that girls get the vaccine around age 11 or 12, up until age 26. Women between the ages of 27 and 45 should talk to our OBGYNs about whether the injection is right for them.

Safe sex is important for all women, vaccinated or not. Women should always use a condom or dental dam during sexual activity. They should get sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and talk to their partners about the test results. Here are some additional tips to help decrease the risk of contracting human papillomavirus.

  • Limit the number of sexual partners or practice monogamy.
  • Avoid alcohol or drug abuse that can lead to risky behavior.
  • Avoid douches because they can remove the bacteria that provides protection from infection.

Women who contract HPV shouldn’t feel embarrassed or stigmatized because human papillomavirus is the most common STI in the United States. Our San Antonio OBGYNs are here to provide support, testing and care for women who are dealing with the virus and the problems it causes, including cervical cancer. Contact us for an appointment.