HPV Symptoms (Human Papillomavirus)

Human Papillomavirus, more commonly known as HPV, is an extremely common sexually transmitted disease. It is estimated that approximately half of all sexually active people will become infected with HPV at one point or another. This is particularly alarming because symptoms of HPV are often very subtle, especially among males, and therefore go unnoticed much more often than they should. Whether or not symptoms can be noticed is entirely dependent upon the type of HPV infection. Because more than 100 types of HPV are known to exist, it is vital that people be informed of the potential red flags that are indicative of HPV symptoms. The following is an aggregation of HPV symptoms for which every sexually active person should check regularly.

Genital warts are a common symptom of less serious HPV infections. Genital warts are unique growths that vary in size, color, and texture. Therefore, any new growth appearing on the cervix, scrotum, penis, anus, groin, or thigh should be examined by a licensed medical professional as soon as possible. In women, such warts are likely to occur most frequently on the vulva. In men, genital warts are more prevalent on the penis and scrotum, and may also appear near and around the anus.

Because HPV infections can cause certain cellular changes, HPV symptoms include precancerous lesions. Such lesions are often detectable through a Pap test. These lesions are classified as either low-grade or high-grade. Such symptoms of HPV that are designated as low-grade are usually able to resolve themselves, thereby reverting to their original cellular states, without treatment. High-grade lesions are less likely to resolve themselves without treatment, and can lead to different types of cancer. Other, less common, such symptoms of HPV include similar lesions that form in the upper respiratory tract. These HPV-related lesions can occur in the nose, soft palate, larynx, tonsils, and tongue.

The most severe effects and symptoms of HPV include different types of cancer. Cancers of the cervix, penis, vulva, vagina, and anus can result from HPV infection. Unfortunately, these cancers do not generally show any symptoms until the disease has advanced. Symptoms of cervical cancer include irregular vaginal bleeding, including bleeding between menstruation periods and unusually heavy menstrual discharge.

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer related to HPV, as almost all instances of cervical cancer are the result of an HPV infection. Because these symptoms of HPV can easily go unnoticed until they are in advanced stages, it is extremely important for sexually active individuals to get screened regularly. This is especially true for cervical cancer screenings among sexually active females.

In order to properly diagnose potential HPV symptoms, it is important for sexually active women to have regular Pap tests. A Pap test is the most reliable method for detecting an HPV infection; a detection that could potentially prevent cervical cancer. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women begin yearly Pap test screenings either three years after first becoming sexually active, or at age 21.

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