You must be wondering what this HPV is. HPV is the abbreviation for human papillomavirus. It results in a viral infection with 100 different forms in today’s existence. Most of the infections caused by HPV are unnoticed but some of them can result in warts over our feet and hands. 40 different forms of HPV transmit through sexual contact and can result in genital warts especially HPV6 and HPV11 while some others can cause cancerous disease. 14 million people suffer from HPV infections in a single year. It is one of the commonly transmitted infections through sexual contact which can affect both men as well as women. HPV can occur at any stage of our life without us realizing it. Some of these HPV infections are so severe that they can result in cervical or different forms of genital cancers especially strains known as HPV16 and HPV 18.
You can protect yourself against HPV infections through these simple measures:
VACCINATION: HPV vaccines are highly effective and help in a significant reduction of HPV infections along with cervical cancer. The vaccine is recommended to all boys and girls at the age of 11-12 years. The vaccines are available in two dosages which are recommended a few months apart. It is considered the best age to get yourself vaccinated and protect yourself against viral exposure through sexual contact. HPV vaccine can also be given at the age of 9 years but girls can get this vaccine till the age of 26 years while boys can get it till 21 years of age. HPV guidelines are based on the age of an individual rather than the sexual experience so if you are active in sexual contact then talk to the healthcare professional for vaccination. The evidence through several studies indicates that the use of HPV vaccines can reduce the risk of cervical cancer by 90%.
SAFE PRACTICES: you can enjoy indulging yourself in sexual activity but wait till you are protected against HPV. You can completely protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections and HPV through abstinence. Correct usage of condoms can also lower your risk to suffer from HPV. Limit indulging in sexual activity with multiple partners. Try reducing the number of sexual partners which reduces the risk of suffering from HPV. You can also get HPV if you are engaged in sexual activity with one partner so it’s better to get yourself vaccinated and make sure you undergo screening.
SCREENING: HPV is one of the leading causes of cervical cancer which can be easily prevented through screening. Get yourself screened for cervical cancer at the age of 21 and a further one with a special test termed as Pap smear which helps in identifying the cancerous cells of the cervix. If you undergo regular screening, these abnormal cells can be easily detected in the early stage and treated as soon as possible before the progression of the disease. Get yourself regularly screened until the age of 65 years. If you appear normal for 3-5 years you can stop undergoing the tests.
Other than the vaccination, screening and safe practices during sexual contact, you can adopt a healthy lifestyle. Exercise regularly, eat healthy foods and vegetables and get 8-9 hours of sleep daily which promotes health and repair the old cells of the body preventing you from diseases.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!