HPV and Laser Wart Treatment

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), one of the most common sexually transmitted viruses worldwide, can cause serious health problems that can affect both men and women.

HPV can often remain hidden in the body for years without causing any symptoms. However, when it becomes active, it can cause genital warts, cervical lesions, and even cervical cancer. Therefore, early diagnosis and protection with the HPV vaccine are critical to prevent the progression of the disease.

What is HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)?

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted viruses and can cause warts on the body.

There are more than 200 types of this virus, some of which cause genital warts, while others can cause serious diseases such as cervical cancer. HPV-16 and HPV-18 types in particular are the most common causes of cervical cancer.

While some types of HPV only cause warts on the skin, high-risk types can cause cellular changes that can lead to cancer.

Low-risk HPV types: Usually cause genital warts.
High-risk HPV types: Can lead to cancers of the cervix, vagina, anus, penis and throat.

What are Genital Warts?

Genital warts are one of the most common symptoms of HPV infection.

These warts are usually raised from the skin, brown, gray or pink in color and can appear singly or in clusters. In men, they are seen around the penis, scrotum, groin area and anus, while in women they can be seen around the vagina, vulva, cervix and anus.

What are the Symptoms of Genital Warts?

• Raised or rough lesions on the skin
• Itching or irritation in the genital area
• Bleeding from warts due to friction
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

In some cases, people who carry HPV do not have any symptoms, but they can transmit the virus to their partners because they carry it.

How Are Genital Warts Transmitted?

HPV is a virus transmitted through contact and the most common way of transmission is sexual intercourse. However, it can be transmitted not only through sexual intercourse but also through skin contact.

The ways HPV is transmitted are as follows:

• Unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal or oral sex)
• Hands or skin contact touching the genital area
• Unhygienic shared personal items such as towels and underwear
• Shared razors or epilators

HPV can be largely prevented by using condoms, but it may not provide complete protection because it can also be transmitted through skin contact. The most effective protection method is the HPV vaccine.

 

How is HPV Virus Diagnosed?

 

How is HPV Virus Diagnosed?

HPV virus is usually diagnosed during routine gynecological examinations or dermatological examinations because its symptoms are not noticed.

HPV diagnosis methods are as follows:

• Gynecological examination and HPV test
• Pap smear test (To assess the risk of cervical cancer)
• Biopsy (Taking tissue samples from warts or lesions)
• Colposcopy (Examining cellular changes in the cervix)

Early diagnosis is very important to prevent HPV from turning into cancer.

Can HPV and Genital Warts Be Treated?

There is no definitive treatment method against HPV virus, but it is possible to strengthen the immune system and control the symptoms caused by the virus.

1. Genital Wart Treatment

Genital warts can disappear on their own, but intervention is usually recommended.

• Laser treatment: Removal of warts by burning them.
• Cryotherapy (Freezing method): Removal of warts by freezing them with liquid nitrogen.
• Electrocauterization: Burning of warts with electric current.
• Topical creams: Wart treatment with drugs such as podophyllin and imiquimod.
• Surgical intervention: Surgical removal with local anesthesia for large warts.

2. Protection with HPV Vaccine

HPV vaccine is the most effective protection method and is especially recommended before becoming sexually active.

3. Strengthening the Immune System

One of the most effective ways to keep HPV under control is to strengthen the immune system.

• Balanced diet and vitamin supplements
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption
• Regular sleep and a stress-free lifestyle

Why Do Brown Spots Form Around the Vagina?

• Pigment changes in the skin (Hyperpigmentation): They can occur due to hormonal changes, aging and skin sensitivity.
• Genital warts: They can be caused by HPV infection and usually grow and spread over time.
• Fungal or bacterial infections: They can occur as a result of an imbalance in the vaginal flora.
• Moles or congenital spots: They can be seen in different areas of the body as well as around the vagina.
• Irritation after shaving or waxing: It can cause damage to the hair follicles or darkening of the skin.
• Use of uncomfortable underwear: Brown spots can occur due to friction and irritation.

If brown spots become permanent, grow or are accompanied by symptoms such as itching and burning, it is important to consult a gynecologist.

HPV Vaccine: Why Is It So Important for Women's Health?

HPV vaccination is one of the most effective protection methods against HPV-related diseases such as cervical cancer and genital warts. Why should you get the HPV vaccine?

• Significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer.
• Provides immunity against the most common types of HPV.
• Protects sexual health by preventing the formation of genital warts.
• The highest level of protection is provided when administered before becoming sexually active.

Unfortunately, however, since the HPV vaccine is not covered by social security, many women have difficulty accessing this vaccine. Health experts and women's rights organizations emphasize that the HPV vaccine should be made widespread and awareness about women's health should be increased.

How is HPV Linked to Cervical Cancer?

Some high-risk types of HPV can cause cellular changes over time, leading to the development of cervical cancer. HPV Type 16 and HPV Type 18, in particular, have been linked to cancer in the vast majority of cases.

Initially asymptomatic: HPV infection can remain in the body for years without showing symptoms. If it progresses, it causes cellular damage: HPV can cause abnormal growth of cells in the cervix, which can turn into cancer. Early diagnosis saves lives: Regular Pap smears and HPV tests allow cervical cancer to be detected at an early stage. Cervical cancer is a preventable disease with the HPV vaccine, regular gynecological check-ups, and conscious protection methods.