Symptoms of HPV burning. The first signs of HPV in women -

In nature, there are many infections that are sexually transmitted, one of these is the papillomavirus. The danger of the virus lies in the fact that it is capable of provoking many ailments, for example, skin diseases, oncology. The HPV group includes not one active virus, but about 70, which have distinctive characteristics in terms of DNA composition. In addition to unprotected sexual contact, a woman can become infected with HPV when a carrier of the virus gets on the skin, as well as perinatally. Unfortunately, it is impossible to eliminate the virus, but there is an effective therapy that helps to block the symptoms.

Almost 50% of all women who are sexually active are infected with papillomavirus. After penetration into the body, this infection manifests itself in the form of genital warts or warts. However, HPV poses the greatest danger to women's sexual health, provoking the appearance of atypical cells in the cervix. As a result, a precancerous condition can develop, which ultimately leads to oncology. Therefore, experts recommend that every six months it is necessary to undergo a detailed examination by a gynecologist, because the course of HPV in women in most cases passes without manifestations of pronounced symptoms.

During a gynecological examination, the doctor can detect all the signs of papillomavirus, but an additional study is required to confirm an accurate diagnosis - PCR analysis. Thanks to this test, you can not only diagnose HPV, but accurately confirm the type of infection.

Attention! The HPV group includes a large number of papillomaviruses, which can affect the female body in different ways, both be asymptomatic and provoke a precancerous condition.

After confirming the diagnosis, the carrier of the virus is sent for colposcopy. This procedure is a mandatory examination, which allows you to examine the uterus in multiple magnification. Through such a study, the latent pathology of the organ is determined. Additionally, the doctor may prescribe a cytology and biopsy (a tissue sample is required for microscopic examination) to rule out oncology.

The main manifestations of HPV

Type of external manifestationImagea brief description of
In a woman, during a visual examination, neoplasms can be observed that have a papillary shape and are characterized by a pale pink color. Locations - skin, mucous membranes of the genital organs. Appear in the form of not only single neoplasms, but also as multiple skin lesions. You can characterize viral warts as a "cockscomb" or part of a cauliflower. Studies show that HPV papillomas and condylomas are characterized by a moderate oncological nature, so the risk of degeneration into cancer is too small. Despite this, they are shown to be removed.
Formations in the form of flat warts are most often localized in the area of ​​the vaginal mucosa. Sometimes a gynecologist diagnoses them on the mucous membrane of the cervix. The main difference from genital warts is the form of the neoplasm. However, flat warts have a higher oncological potential, so a woman must be referred for colposcopy and biopsy. Based on the results of the analyzes, further tactics for the removal of neoplasms are determined. Therefore, in the absence of pathological indicators, only a wart with a small tissue circle is removed. On the contrary, if atypical changes in cells are confirmed, then a large area of ​​peripheral tissues is urgently removed, which also captures healthy
Epithelial cells can transform in such a way that they provoke a precancerous condition. Subsequent treatment tactics will depend on the form and stage of transformation of the epithelial cell nuclei. In some cases, conization is prescribed - a special surgical procedure that allows you to remove a small area of ​​the cervix to prevent oncological degeneration. When diagnosing mild and moderate dysplasia, experts insist on conservative treatment (provided there are no urogenital infections). Only severe dysplasia of the course requires mandatory surgical intervention
On the female skin of the genital organs, rashes may occur, characterized by compacted plaques that rise above the skin. It is distinctive that such skin rashes have a pinkish or yellowish tint. The danger of bowenous papulosis is that the risk of developing skin cancer is high.
This is a direct precancerous condition that has three stages of development. At the same time, the latter is the beginning of the development of the oncological process.
Cervical cancer caused by HPV types 39, 35, 33, 31, 18, and 16

It is important! The main type of treatment for removing the alarming symptoms of papillomavirus in women is surgical. Additionally, to block the manifestations of HPV, immunostimulants are prescribed (most often the virus is distinguished by external symptoms with weakened immunity), the use of antiviral drugs.

Symptoms

The main manifestation of symptoms will depend on which type of papillomavirus is present in the female body.

  1. After sexual intercourse, a woman may experience minor bleeding from the vagina that occurs in the intermenstrual period.
  2. The appearance of pain syndrome, which is felt in the back, lower extremities and pelvis.
  3. Chronic fatigue.
  4. Periodic weight loss.
  5. Bad appetite.
  6. Vaginal discharge characterized by an unpleasant odor.
  7. Discomfort in the vaginal area.
  8. Swelling of the lower limbs.

If the virus is in a more advanced form, then there are serious consequences, which lead to degeneration into oncology.

Oncology of the cervix and papillomavirus are directly related. The main danger lies in the chronic course of the disease, which leads to the degeneration of a precancerous condition into an oncological disease.

If a woman is diagnosed with papillomavirus infection, but at the same time a high level of protective functions of the immune system, then the development of cancer will occur only after twenty years (which is why it is important to maintain the level of immunity). When a woman's immunity is not strong enough or weakened by other viruses, for example, HIV, then oncology develops in a few years (from 5 to 10).

Risk factors:

  • the beginning of early sexual activity;
  • sexual life without barrier contraception with different partners;
  • regular smoking;
  • destruction of immunity due to viral lesions (HIV infection).

How big is the problem?

According to medical statistics, cervical cancer is the fourth most common disease in the world. Mortality in this case is about 7.5% of all types of oncology.

Therefore, in developed countries there is a program that allows you to detect pathology at an early stage and block it in a timely manner - this is screening. Thanks to this testing, confirmation of a precancerous condition is carried out in those women who feel completely healthy.

Note! Screening helps to detect cancer at an early stage, when the effectiveness of treatment is a high percentage.

How to prevent HPV?

In order to avoid becoming a victim of papillomavirus, vaccination is necessary. The main provocateurs of a precancerous condition are types 16 and 18 of the virus, it is from them that effective vaccination exists today. In addition, after the introduction of the vaccine, there is cross-protection against other less common types, for example, 11 and 6.

HPV is a group of viruses that mainly affects the epithelial cells of the female genital tract. This family includes more than a hundred representatives of viruses. Papillomavirus infections can be asymptomatic or accompanied by the appearance of specific warts and genital warts, generalization of infection with severe damage to internal organs. One of the most formidable complications of HPV infection in a woman's body is the formation of malignant neoplasms of the vulva and cervix.

There are many different strains of papillomaviruses. Depending on their impact on the human body, experts divide all representatives of this family into various subgroups. The most important, for determining the further tactics of managing the patient, is the classification according to the degree of oncogenicity.

Depending on the ability of the microorganism to cause cervical carcinoma, the following groups are distinguished:

  • HPV with low oncogenic risk- these include viruses of types 3, 6, 13, 34, 42, 51. As a rule, infections caused by these representatives are asymptomatic and do not pose a danger to a woman's health. However, HPV type 51 can cause active growth of warts in the genital area and anus, with frequent damage to which increases the risk of complications.
  • Viruses with an average risk of oncogenicity- viruses of types 52 and 56 are tropic to the epithelium of the mucous membrane of the cervix and, in combination with other risk factors (hereditary predisposition, trauma, exposure to carcinogens), can lead to the appearance of a malignant neoplasm.
  • Highly oncogenic viruses- this group includes 16, 18, 31 and 33 types. Studies have shown that with cervical cancer in the patient's body in 95% of cases, human papillomaviruses 16 and 18 are detected. They have the ability to synthesize a special E7 protein, leading to malignancy of epithelial cells.

Human papillomaviruses 6 and 11 are isolated into a separate group. Their presence in a woman's body causes the appearance of giant papillomas in the vagina, prone to aggressive growth and a rapid increase in size. This pathological process contributes to significant damage to surrounding tissues, the addition of secondary infections.

Generalized verrucosis, caused by viruses types 3 and 5, develops only with a genetic mutation and is characterized by the appearance of many warts throughout the body.

According to the ICD-10, papillomaviruses have the code B97.7.

Causes of HPV infection

The defenses of a healthy person in 90% of cases are able to cope with the infection on their own. However, with a decrease in immunity, virions are able to penetrate into cells and cause disease.

HPV is transmitted mainly through sexual contact. There are the following factors contributing to the disease:

  • promiscuous sexual contacts;
  • frequent hypothermia;
  • neglect of barrier methods of contraception;
  • chronic infections of the genital tract;
  • long-term diseases of the internal organs, leading to disruption of the immune system;
  • oncological diseases and the use of cytostatics;
  • non-compliance with the rules of personal and intimate hygiene;
  • regular stress, nervous experiences;
  • genetic predisposition.

In most cases, the onset of HPV infection is facilitated by a decrease in immunity caused by a combination of several factors. The contact-household way of transmission of infection can be realized by shaking hands, bodily contact. It is especially relevant in childhood, when viruses are transmitted from a sick child to a healthy one through various microdamages of the skin - scratches, abrasions, wounds.

Viruses with weak oncogenic activity are most often transmitted by contact, which do not pose a particular danger to the body.

Symptoms of the disease

The clinical manifestations of papillomatosis depend on the area in which the infection is localized. Warts and condylomas can appear on the skin and mucous membranes in the urethra, vagina, labia, around the anus and on the cervix.

Consider their features:

  • In the case of localization of warts in the inguinal region, neoplasms appear on the skin of the labia, which differ in structure and color from healthy surrounding tissues. In most cases, genital warts are formed, resembling cauliflower in shape. Warts may not change in size for a long time and do not bother a woman, being only a cosmetic defect. However, in case of excessive growth, they can interfere with a full sexual life and natural childbirth.
  • On the pubis, the skin of the labia majora, flat papules of yellow, whitish or light pink color may form. This form of the disease is called "bone-shaped papulosis" and is most often caused by oncogenic types of HPV. If this symptomatology occurs, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible in order to diagnose, determine the pathogen and start etiological treatment.
  • On the cervical mucosa during a gynecological examination, warts of the color of the surrounding normal epithelium, genital warts, cervical erosion and dysplasia are determined.

Very often, HPV infection occurs under the guise of other gynecological diseases, which creates difficulties in establishing the correct diagnosis. A woman may complain of a feeling of discomfort, pain when trying to have sexual intercourse, burning and itching in the groin, pulling pains in the lower abdomen above the pubis, intermenstrual bleeding, mucous discharge from the vagina, deterioration in general well-being, weakness and fever up to subfebrile numbers.

When these symptoms appear, a consultation with a gynecologist is mandatory, regardless of whether a woman is sexually active or not. This is explained by the fact that any gynecological diseases reduce local defenses, can lead to further HPV infection and increase the risk of cervical cancer.

Features of the course of infection

Paillomavirus infection in the body of women is distinguished by a number of features. The incubation period of the disease varies widely and can range from a few weeks to several decades. That is why it is not always possible to establish the time and source of infection.

The specificity of the course of the disease can be considered:

  • The duration of the latent course depends on the state of the body's defenses. The weaker the immune system, the shorter the incubation period.
  • In the event that condylomas affect only the cervix and vagina, the pathology can be asymptomatic for a long time or with nonspecific clinical manifestations and be detected only during random gynecological examinations.
  • In most cases, HPV infection cannot go away on its own without etiological treatment. With incorrect or incomplete therapy, condylomas continue to actively develop.
  • If highly oncogenic types of papillomavirus are detected in the body, it is necessary to carry out specific treatment and further monitoring of the woman in order to detect possible complications early.

Cervical cancer develops in approximately 1% of women diagnosed with HPV infection, and all types of viruses are taken into account, including non-oncogenic ones. From the moment of infection with the human papillomavirus to the development of oncopathology, an average of 15-20 years pass.

In rare cases, in the absence of a pathology of the immune system, it is possible to self-heal from the virus within 9 months after infection (transient infection).

Diagnosis of the disease

If unpleasant symptoms occur that indicate a possible HPV infection, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist or dermatovenereologist as soon as possible in order to establish an accurate diagnosis, determine the strain of the virus and prescribe appropriate therapy.

The composition of a comprehensive examination for papillomatosis includes:

  • Careful collection of patient complaints and anamnesis of the disease.
  • A general examination, during which a specialist carefully examines the skin of a woman, special attention is paid to the genital area, perineum and perianal area.
  • Inspection in the mirrors with the obligatory taking of smears for flora and atypical cells (PAP test) from the mucous membranes of the vagina, cervix and cervical canal.
  • If a malignant neoplasm of the cervix is ​​suspected, the doctor can perform a biopsy - take a small fragment of the epithelium of the cervix and perform a histological examination.
  • In order to determine the presence of HPV in the body and determine the type of virus, the polymerase chain reaction technique is used.
  • The double hybrid trap method is a highly specific and accurate method for diagnosing HPV.

Bacteriological culture and serological tests for other sexually transmitted diseases are used as additional research methods, since they can occur in parallel with HPV infection and mask its symptoms.

For a more accurate diagnosis, before taking the tests, it is important to follow a number of simple measures. Before a gynecological examination and sampling of smears, a toilet of the external genital organs should be performed; on the eve of the examination, vaginal suppositories and creams should not be used; 2-3 days before the examination, one should refrain from sexual intercourse. Blood for serological analysis should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, regardless of the day of the menstrual cycle.

If a pathology of the cervix is ​​detected, it is mandatory to conduct a test for tumor markers. In order to diagnose cervical cancer caused by HPV, the level of specific E7 protein is determined.

Treatment of pathology

When detecting the DNA of a highly oncogenic papillomavirus in a woman's body and the symptoms of papillomatosis, the gynecologist selects a comprehensive effective treatment. Measures in the presence of HPV infection should be aimed at reducing the activity of a dangerous virus, eliminating the manifestations of the disease, and preventing the occurrence of a malignant neoplasm.

With the described pathology, the following are used:

  • local therapy aimed at the destruction of warts and genital warts;
  • systemic antiviral drugs, leading to the elimination of the virus from the body;
  • surgical intervention;
  • immunomodulatory drugs and multivitamins to increase the body's defenses;
  • symptomatic therapy (drugs that eliminate itching, detoxification).

The most effective is the combination of warts removal surgery with specific antiviral treatment.

In the treatment of papillomatosis, an integrated approach and careful adherence to milestones of medical recommendations are very important. It is also mandatory to examine the sexual partner and prescribe special therapy for him when HPV is detected. This is necessary to avoid the occurrence of reinfection and the formation of complications.

Surgical treatment of papillomatosis

Surgical treatment is used for the active growth of genital warts and warts, which creates an obstacle to childbirth and normal sexual life. As a treatment, a woman is offered:

  1. Laser removal of skin formations - the most effective and safe method that can be used even for young, nulliparous girls and during pregnancy. The only drawback of this method is a relatively long recovery period (from 6 months to 1 year).
  2. Surgery- excision of warts and genital warts. Indications for this are the large sizes of papillomas. After the intervention, scars may form, so this method is not indicated for nulliparous women planning a pregnancy in the near future.
  3. Cryodestruction- used to remove external papillomas localized on the skin of the perineum of the labia. During the intervention, pathological foci are exposed to liquid nitrogen. The advantages of the method include its speed, painlessness, short recovery period and the absence of postoperative scars. The disadvantage is the high risk of recurrence of the disease some time after treatment.
  4. Radio wave method- the most effective modern method. Recovery after this intervention averages 2-3 weeks, and the risk of recurrence of the disease is minimal.
  5. Electrocoagulation- removal of genital warts by electric current under local anesthesia. The method is contraindicated during the gestation period.

The choice of the method of surgical treatment is carried out by the attending physician, based on data on the localization and prevalence of the pathological process, as well as taking into account concomitant factors (the state of health of the woman, pregnancy).

After removal of genital warts, the patient must be prescribed a course of etiological and restorative treatment. These measures are the prevention of recurrence of HPV infection and papillomatosis.

Conservative therapy

Drug treatment of HPV infection consists of local and systemic therapy.

Topical drugs are designed to chemically destroy warts. Drugs such as Podophyllin and Foresol cauterize and lead to the mummification of affected tissues. Solcoderm destroys warts at the cellular level.

As conservative therapy, the following are also used:

  • Groprinosin- tablets with antiviral and immunomodulatory activity. Most often, the drug is prescribed in combination with burning local remedies or surgery.
  • Vaginal suppositories Panavir- antiviral drug of plant origin, has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. The drug has practically no side reactions, the only contraindication to its use is an allergy to the components of the drug.
  • Creams and ointments based on Acyclovir(Zovirax, Acigerpin). Means delicately affect the skin and mucous membranes of the affected area, leaving no burns and scars. The drugs are allowed to be used for the treatment of pregnant women.
  • - antiviral, immunomodulatory drug that prevents the reproduction of oncogenic viruses.
  • Likopid- an effective tablet remedy prescribed for cervical papillomatosis. The use of this drug in combination with antiviral therapy significantly increases its effectiveness.
  • Cytostatics(5-fluorouracil, Bleomycin) are prescribed for diagnosed precancer of the cervix.

In order to increase the body's defenses, doctors often prescribe multivitamin preparations. It is especially important that they include vitamins A, B, C and E. During treatment, you should try to avoid stress, overwork and follow a specialized diet. The diet of patients should be balanced, sufficient in calories and contain all the necessary nutrients. For the period of treatment, it is important to give up bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol), to exclude spicy, smoked and spicy foods.

Antibiotics are ineffective against the human papillomavirus, however, they can be part of a complex conservative treatment if a woman has a concomitant bacterial infection of the genital tract.

Treatment of the disease at home

When starting treatment, it should be remembered that HPV cannot be effectively eliminated with the help of folk remedies. However, using home remedies, you can increase the body's defenses and immunity, which will speed up recovery.

As folk methods in the fight against papillomavirus, one can distinguish:

  • herbal decoction prepared from dry lemon balm, plantain, horsetail and dandelion. Dry herbs should be taken in equal amounts and mixed, then 3 tbsp. l. the resulting mixture pour 1 liter of clean water, bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes. The resulting drink must be filtered and taken 2 tbsp. l. three times a day half an hour before meals.
  • Cranberry- a berry that has the ability to increase the body's defenses. It has long been used for colds, infections of the genitourinary system and papillomatosis. To prepare cranberry broth at home, 0.5 kg of fresh berries should be rubbed through a sieve or twisted in a meat grinder. To the resulting mass, add 2 finely chopped apples and a handful of chopped walnuts. After that, 0.5 kg of sugar, a glass of water are added to the mixture and boiled over low heat until it thickens. You need to use the medicine for 2 tbsp. l. twice a day. For greater effectiveness, it is recommended to drink the remedy with strong black tea.
  • potato juice– The prescription is widely used to treat HPV. To prepare the product, it is better to choose pink varieties of potatoes. The course of this therapy is 2 months, during which it is necessary to drink 0.5 cups of juice 30 minutes before meals.
  • Dried fruit mix- is an effective means to stabilize the immune system. Shredded dried fruits (dried apricots, raisins), nuts and honey are mixed and transferred to a sterile jar. You need to take such a vitamin mixture in 1 tbsp. three times a day.

Treatment with home remedies can be used for papillomavirus. However, if highly oncogenic strains of microorganisms are found in the body, it is important not to hope for a complete cure with their help, but to undergo medical and surgical treatment prescribed by a doctor.

Before using any alternative methods for the treatment of HPV, you should definitely consult with your doctor in order to identify possible contraindications.

HPV prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent HPV. With it, artificially created "empty" viral particles containing only a protein shell without DNA are introduced into a woman's body. In response to their introduction, specific antibodies are produced that protect the body when live viruses enter it.

WHO identifies the following indications for preventive vaccination:

  • the age of the patient is from 9 to 25 years;
  • lack of sexual activity (which is why teenage girls are most often vaccinated);
  • prevention of cancer of the cervix and vagina, which is especially important in case of aggravated heredity.

The HPV vaccine is administered three times according to the scheme "0-2-6" months. Before the introduction of the vaccine, it is important to determine the antibodies to HPV or to conduct a PCR analysis. The vaccine will not be effective in an already infected organism.

The doctor in the video tells more about vaccinating women against HPV.

Disease prevention measures also include the use of barrier methods of contraception, intelligibility in sexual relations, compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene, timely treatment of STIs, prevention of early sexual activity (the optimal age according to WHO is 18 years and older), as well as regular medical examinations of a woman and her sexual partner .

HPV is one of the most diverse and dangerous viruses that has the ability to increase the risk of cervical cancer. When the slightest symptoms of the disease appear, it is important to consult a doctor for the purpose of early diagnosis. Timely complex treatment will help improve the general condition of the patient and avoid the development of possible complications.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) poses a particular danger to women. Its certain varieties cause the development of pathologies of the female reproductive system. One of the most serious complications that human papillomavirus infection (PVI) can provoke is cervical dysplasia. The disease is accompanied by structural changes in the structure of its mucosa. The condition is assessed by physicians as precancerous.

Most often, there is no typical symptomatology. But against the background of a developing disease, the patient notes the appearance of uncharacteristic discharge from the genital tract. A visit to the gynecologist confirms suspicions.

In the presence of PVI in the composition of the mucous discharge, the laboratory assistant detects:

  • ordinary mucus produced by the glands of the cervix;
  • modified epithelial cells;
  • microorganisms present in the composition of the vaginal microflora.

Increased formation of mucous secretions with HPV in women may be a symptom of an erosive process.

Human papillomavirus - discharge from women

To understand the true cause of the appearance of atypical whites, just examining the vagina in the gynecologist's chair will not be enough. To confirm a preliminary diagnosis, a woman will be assigned certain tests.

The developing human papillomavirus - vaginal discharge in a given time period can change significantly - can provoke the development of many unpleasant conditions.

  • The appearance of a thick vaginal secretion of a milky hue with an unpleasant specific odor may be a sign of the onset of colpitis. It is inflammation of the vaginal mucosa that most often accompanies HPV.
  • The formation of erosive inflammation can be indicated by scanty leucorrhoea containing blood streaks and even purulent discharge. The secretions have an unpleasant odor.
  • Of particular danger are spotting with papillomavirus: both insignificant and abundant. In some cases, they indicate the transition of neoplasia to the third (cancerous) stage. To diagnose the pathology, an additional laboratory examination of the vaginal smear is required.
  • Increased vaginal secretion, accompanied by itching and pain, is a clear sign of the development of one of the genital infections. It is worth remembering that HPV infection occurs through unprotected sexual contact. That is why getting concomitant sexually transmitted diseases is far from uncommon.
  • In many cases, papillomavirus infection is accompanied by the development of genital herpes. A woman may notice an increased production of vaginal secretion, which increases in the second half of the menstrual cycle. Additional signs of infection are the appearance on the mucous surfaces of itchy vesicles filled with a clear liquid.

Only a smear study will help to identify the true cause of the appearance of pathological vaginal discharge against the background of an established HPV infection.

To date, HPV can be safely called one of the most common viruses, which in most cases is transmitted from person to person during sexual contact.

Modern medicine knows more than 100 varieties of papillomavirus, which are found in 80% of the population. Women are more susceptible to this disease, which very often causes precancerous changes in the organs of the genitourinary system. Today, cases in which patients diagnosed with HPV are diagnosed with cancer of the anus, vagina or vulva have become more frequent. To prevent infection with the papillomavirus, the female half of the population needs to know everything about this problem.

HPV types in women

Women are usually diagnosed with the following types of papillomavirus:

Why HPV is dangerous for women, consequences, complications

If representatives of the female half of the population ignore this disease, then it can not only thoroughly ruin their lives, but also lead to irreparable consequences. All, without exception, neoplasms that are a manifestation of papillomavirus not only disfigure the body of patients, but also cause:

  • infection of the child with HPV during childbirth;
  • development of oncological diseases;
  • infection with various infections.

The papillomavirus is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as well as for their unborn babies. That is why, when planning a pregnancy, expectant mothers need to be tested for the presence of HPV. If the corresponding antibodies are detected during the laboratory examination, the patient will be advised to postpone pregnancy. A woman will be able to return to this issue after complex treatment and re-testing.

Sometimes papillomavirus is diagnosed in women who are already in position. In this case, specialists postpone treatment until the 28th week of pregnancy. By this time, all the internal organs of the child will be formed and his body will be able to endure drug therapy. After treatment of this category of patients, it is not recommended to give birth on their own, since the remaining warts can infect the fetus during passage through the birth canal.

In most cases, women imperceptibly become infected with papillomavirus. In more than 90% of patients, the HPV virus disappears from the body on its own, leaving no consequences. According to statistics published in specialized media, only 25% of women experience the consequences of the papillomavirus:

Papillomavirus, which progresses in women, can lead to the development of such consequences:

  • oncology (the lungs, neck, head, cervix, anus, vagina, external genital organs are affected);
  • papillomatosis (recurrent) of the respiratory tract;
  • hyperplasia (epithelial) of the oral cavity;
  • warts (flat and pointed);
  • cervical dysplasia;
  • growths on the feet, etc.

Causes of papilloma virus in women

The cause of this disease in the female half of the population is the HPV virus, which affects not only the mucous membrane of the organs of the reproductive system, but also the upper layers of the skin. Papillomavirus is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person, both during sex and with any tactile contact.

The reasons for the appearance of papillomavirus in women include the following:

  • weakened immunity (especially after pregnancy);
  • frequent change of sexual partners;
  • casual sex;
  • infection with AIDS and other serious diseases (for example, diabetes, viral and infectious diseases);
  • alcohol abuse;
  • drug use;
  • smoking;
  • taking immunosuppressive drugs, etc.

HPV symptoms in women

Most papillomavirus patients are asymptomatic. But, there are cases in which women with HPV develop either warts or other rashes on the skin or mucous membranes, or vaginal discharge (bloody). During a personal examination, the specialist draws attention to the following external manifestations of a viral infection:

  • signs of cervical erosion (in the early stages they are absent, so doctors take a smear for cytology from all patients);
  • signs of dysplasia;
  • the presence of neoplasms (they are most often cancerous) on the cervix;
  • pain in the genital area;
  • burning, unusual discharge, etc.

The duration of the incubation period for HPV depends on the type of virus and other external and internal factors. Papillomavirus type 18 or 16 can lead to the development of cancer 10, 15 or 20 years after infection. Papillomavirus type 11 or type 6 manifests itself in the form of warts for a period of 3 weeks to 8 months.

How and where does the virus show up?

In order not to confuse the external manifestations of papillomavirus on the skin and mucous membranes with moles, acne, vesicles and other rashes, women need to know exactly where HPV signs may appear:

Allocations for HPV

Many patients who are infected with papillomavirus often complain of vaginal discharge, which may be accompanied by itching or burning. They can appear for no reason, or after sexual intercourse (bleeding). If such a symptom is found, you should immediately visit the local gynecologist and undergo an examination on the chair, laboratory examination and hardware diagnostics.

Diagnostic methods for HPV

Papillomavirus in women is diagnosed as follows:

  1. A personal examination of the patient is carried out on a gynecological chair. A gynecologist examines the cervix using a special tool - a mirror.
  2. A colposcopy is performed (the cervical mucosa is examined under a microscope after acetic acid is applied to its surface). The specialist conducts various tests to see genital warts, in particular, makes a test using Lugol's solution.
  3. Scraping from the cervix (cytological smear) or from the cervical canal is examined. This method of determining papillomavirus is called the Papanicolaou test. This diagnostic method allows you to detect cancer at an early stage.
  4. Biopsy (a tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope) of the cervix.
  5. polymerase chain reaction. The purpose of this technique is to determine HPV DNA (scraping is done from the cervical canal).
  6. Digene test. This method of detecting papillomavirus is by far the most accurate and effective.

Methods of treatment and removal of HPV in women

Today, in medical institutions, human papillomavirus infection is treated in different ways. Each patient is individually selected method of therapy, which often consists of surgical removal of growths and antiviral and anti-inflammatory treatment:

HPV treatment

I'll start from afar. A few years ago I found out that HPV types 16 and 51 were found out, I told the current MCh about this before starting a closer relationship. He said "ok, no problem". At first they were protected by condoms, but then there was irritation from latex, something like an allergy, and they decided to switch to contraceptives (he put up with the risks of HPV infection). HPV was treated 2.5 years ago, but she didn’t pass the control tests, for some reason the doctor said it’s not necessary, they say it will always be, and if it was treated correctly, then everything will be fine, why waste money on unnecessary tests. Problems started a couple of months ago. Sent to get tested. I passed the tests for HPV and sent the MCh to take it, as a result, only HPV 16 was found out and only with me! MCH was clean! How can this be? He has never been treated for it and never contracted it. Is it possible for me to get rid of it too? HPV 16 was found in an amount of 4.61 (3-5 clinically significant risk of dysplasia). Has anyone else experienced this or has it been cured?

I’m also wondering if I infected anyone .. he just had a good immune system, he suppressed the virus, I’m frail, everything sticks to me .. I had to remove the erosion due to the unfortunate HPV

HPV is present in all people, whether male or female. And it manifests itself only with a decrease in immunity. It cannot be cured, it can be silenced. But one will show up again. as soon as the immune system weakens. It manifests itself in you, because there is a problem with immunity, in MCH it does not manifest itself, because there is order with immunity. Do you have erosion? So cauterize + drink immunomodulators or pierce + candles. And until the next weakening of the immune system.

I decided to treat cervical erosion, it was large and it can no longer be ignored, they found HPV, but not a high oncogene (medium), the doctors said until we suppress the virus, we will not start treating erosion. I pricked the drug Allokin-alpha (expensive) and after colpocid. According to the control tests, HPV was not found, erosion, when the doctor and I looked, began to try to heal itself, but because. very large had to clean up after all.
But my colleague has been trying to suppress HPV for years, though I don’t know if she has a high oncogene. A lot of money gone, all in debt. The drugs prescribed do not help.

tell me, did you have a burning sensation with HPV? I have a periodic burning sensation of the vagina and urethra, according to the analysis, a slight inflammation both there and there. of infections, only HPV (warts). could my symptoms be HPV related?

What city are you from? please consult a doctor. no strength. my sex life has already come to naught, but I’m getting married in the summer, the groom climbs the wall, but I don’t feel like it - after sex, the burning sensation is even more, it will hurt everything (((

And that's it, I read that only you have HPV, your head is spinning.

Symptoms of the human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus is a type of virus that causes pathological division of skin cells and mucous membranes, which leads to the formation of various defects (warts, papillomas, etc.). This group of viruses was talked about not so long ago - when it was discovered that certain types of HPV are associated with an increased risk of cancer. Over the past 50 years, 150 different types have been described. So far, the properties of only 80 of them have been investigated.

Why is HPV dangerous?

Highly oncogenic HPV subtypes (about 30 types) are a ticking time bomb. Once in the body, they may not cause any symptoms for a long time, suppressed by the immune system. But as soon as protection falls due to diseases or immunodeficiency conditions, the virus begins to actively replicate (multiply inside cells).

Infecting epithelial cells, the virus leads to their active division. The altered cells are recognized by the immune system and destroyed. However, with prolonged presence and high activity of the virus, some cells avoid destruction, forming a focus of persistent infection. During subsequent divisions, mutations can easily occur in them, leading to the appearance of a tumor.

It is possible to determine whether the subspecies is highly oncogenic only through tests, which are definitely recommended to be taken if external signs of HPV appear. Further treatment tactics depend on the type of virus.

Scientists have noted the most dangerous subspecies: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39.45, 51, 52, 56, 59, 68. For example, viruses 16, 18, 45 and 56 are associated with the risk of developing dysplasia and cervical cancer. This disease is dangerous because it develops for a long time without symptoms. If a woman visits the gynecologist irregularly, she may not realize that she is sick. Unfortunately, in our country, cervical cancer is still detected in a large percentage of cases already at the stage of metastases.

In addition to cervical cancer, the virus causes oncological diseases:

  • anus;
  • rectum;
  • vagina;
  • vulva;
  • penis;
  • Bladder;
  • Larynx;
  • Lungs.

So it is clear that a man is also at risk associated with HPV oncogenicity.

Human papillomavirus infection is by far the most common sexually transmitted infection. Other methods of infection (contact household, from mother to fetus) are much less common. Usually a surge of infections occurs at the beginning of an active sexual life. That is why doctors strongly recommend that young girls who have not yet had sex get vaccinated against HPV types 16 and 18 to protect themselves from cervical cancer. The WHO recommendation is to be vaccinated at 9-13 years of age.

Non-oncogenic viruses with low oncogenicity are also unpleasant - they cause various defects of the skin and mucous membranes, such as vulgar warts, papillomas, spiny calluses.

HPV symptoms

I would like to note that in a fairly large number of cases, infection with papillomavirus infection does not manifest itself at all, or the disease goes away on its own when a healthy immune system suppresses the virus. Those cases of infection are dangerous when the virus persists for a long time in the body.

From the moment of infection, the incubation period begins. It varies from a month to several years, so most often the source of the virus remains unknown. After this period ends, external signs of the disease appear.

Some external signs of HPV infection in women and men are the same:

  • Genital warts (skin outgrowths on a thin stalk, sometimes merging together) on the genitals and around the anus, rarely in the oral cavity;
  • Fibro- and keratopapillomas on the skin (armpits, under the breasts, on the neck, in the groin);
  • Bowenoid papulosis - dark red spots, papules and plaques on the genitals.

Separately, it is worth considering the manifestations that you should pay attention to if external signs are clearly not visible.

Possible signs of HPV in men

Symptoms of HPV infection in men may include discomfort and burning when urinating, frequent urges if warts have "settled" in the urethra or bladder. With ulceration of these formations, a bacterial infection joins, chronic urethritis or cystitis develops.

Pain during bowel movements is caused by warts in the rectum and around the anus. There may be pain when walking, with prolonged sitting, blood remains on toilet paper or underwear. When a bacterial infection is attached, paraproctitis develops - a purulent inflammation of the tissues of the rectum.

Other possible symptoms:

  • Burning and itching of the genitals;
  • Discomfort and pain during intercourse;
  • heaviness in the lower back and lower abdomen;
  • Signs of general intoxication of the body (headache, chills, weakness, fever).

Possible signs of HPV in women

Genital and flat warts in women can also be localized in the urethra, which leads to discomfort when trying to urinate and even urinary retention.

When genital warts are located in the anus, vagina, there may be a sensation of a foreign object inside, pain and burning during defecation, sexual intercourse.

A symptom of HPV infection specific to women is intraepithelial neoplasia of the cervix of varying degrees. This is a precancerous change in squamous epithelial cells, which, without treatment, can degenerate into cancer.

Dysplasia, like cervical cancer, does not hurt, is not visible from the outside and does not bother the woman. Therefore, you need to carefully listen to your body and be sure to regularly undergo an examination by a gynecologist.

Indirect signs of precancerous changes in the epithelium of the cervical mucosa or cancer:

  • Recurrent spotting between periods (or during menopause), from slight to profuse (in the later stages);
  • Menstrual irregularities;
  • Vaginal bleeding after intercourse or other mechanical intervention (douching, gynecological examination);
  • Heaviness, discomfort in the vagina and lower abdomen;
  • Serous or serous-bloody discharge from the vagina, in the later stages of cancer - with an unpleasant odor;
  • Prolonged weakness and a slight increase in body temperature.

When these signs appear, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor for examination.

Diagnosis of diseases caused by HPV

If HPV is suspected, a man needs to visit a urologist, and a woman - gynecology. Another possible option is to come to a specialized dermatovenerological dispensary, where the relevant specialists receive.

If condylomas are located on the external genital organs, then the doctor will see them during the examination. If there are no external signs, changes in the epithelium of the genitourinary organs can be detected during ureteroscopy and rectoscopy with corresponding complaints in men.

Women are examined on a gynecological chair with the help of instruments (Cusco mirror, Sims mirror). In addition to a visual assessment of the condition, during the examination, a Pap test, a PCR smear can be performed.

The PAP test is a sampling of a cervical smear-imprint (scrape) with its application to a glass slide and drying. The material obtained during these studies (a piece of cervical mucosa) is sent for cytology (laboratory examination under a microscope to detect atypical - altered cells).

Signs of atypicality may be a change in the size, shape or color of the nucleus, changes in the cytoplasm. If such cells are found, a more detailed study is required. Cytology will not give an answer to the question of whether it is dysplasia or already cancer. This requires histology.

For histological analysis, a biopsy is performed - taking a piece of the mucous membrane with special tools. Histology makes it possible to determine the degree of changes, as well as their good quality or malignancy.

Smears for PCR analysis are taken from both men (urethra) and women (cervix). For analysis, scraping of the mucosa is used. Even for PCR analysis, they can take blood and other biological

Another way to detect the virus in the blood is ELISA. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detects the amount and type of HPV antibodies in the body. This makes it possible to determine the presence of the pathogen and the strength of the immune response to it, but not the subspecies of the virus. Usually, an ELISA test is prescribed together with PCR.

Timely treatment of neoplasia, genital warts and other manifestations, as well as a healthy lifestyle and sexual intercourse with a constant proven partner will protect against cancer and other unpleasant consequences of HPV.

Human papillomavirus is a type of virus that causes pathological division of skin cells and mucous membranes, which leads to the formation of various defects (warts, papillomas, etc.). This group of viruses was talked about not so long ago - when it was discovered that certain types of HPV are associated with an increased risk of cancer. Over the past 50 years, 150 different types have been described. So far, the properties of only 80 of them have been investigated.

Highly oncogenic HPV subtypes (about 30 types) are a ticking time bomb. Once in the body, they may not cause any symptoms for a long time, suppressed by the immune system. But as soon as protection falls due to diseases or immunodeficiency conditions, the virus begins to actively replicate (multiply inside cells).

Infecting epithelial cells, the virus leads to their active division. The altered cells are recognized by the immune system and destroyed. However, with prolonged presence and high activity of the virus, some cells avoid destruction, forming a focus of persistent infection. During subsequent divisions, mutations can easily occur in them, leading to the appearance of a tumor.

It is possible to determine whether the subspecies is highly oncogenic only through tests, which are definitely recommended to be taken if external signs of HPV appear. Further treatment tactics depend on the type of virus.

According to some data, papillomavirus carriers are up to 75-80% of the world's population. So it is not difficult to guess that the risk of infection is very high.

Scientists have noted the most dangerous subspecies: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39.45, 51, 52, 56, 59, 68. For example, viruses 16, 18, 45 and 56 are associated with the risk of developing dysplasia and cervical cancer. This disease is dangerous because it develops for a long time without symptoms. If a woman visits the gynecologist irregularly, she may not realize that she is sick. Unfortunately, in our country, cervical cancer is still detected in a large percentage of cases already at the stage of metastases.

In addition to cervical cancer, the virus causes oncological diseases:

  • anus;
  • rectum;
  • vagina;
  • vulva;
  • penis;
  • Bladder;
  • Larynx;
  • Lungs.

So it is clear that a man is also at risk associated with HPV oncogenicity.

Human papillomavirus infection is by far the most common sexually transmitted infection. Other methods of infection (contact household, from mother to fetus) are much less common. Usually a surge of infections occurs at the beginning of an active sexual life. That is why doctors strongly recommend that young girls who have not yet had sex get vaccinated against HPV types 16 and 18 to protect themselves from cervical cancer. The WHO recommendation is to be vaccinated at 9-13 years of age.

Non-oncogenic viruses with low oncogenicity are also unpleasant - they cause various defects of the skin and mucous membranes, such as vulgar warts, papillomas, spiny calluses.

HPV symptoms

I would like to note that in a fairly large number of cases, infection with papillomavirus infection does not manifest itself at all, or the disease goes away on its own when a healthy immune system suppresses the virus. Those cases of infection are dangerous when the virus persists for a long time in the body.

From the moment of infection, the incubation period begins. It varies from a month to several years, so most often the source of the virus remains unknown. After this period ends, external signs of the disease appear.

Some external signs of HPV infection in women and men are the same:

  • Genital warts (skin outgrowths on a thin stalk, sometimes merging together) on the genitals and around the anus, rarely in the oral cavity;
  • Fibro- and keratopapillomas on the skin (armpits, under the breasts, on the neck, in the groin);
  • Bowenoid papulosis - dark red spots, papules and plaques on the genitals.

Separately, it is worth considering the manifestations that you should pay attention to if external signs are clearly not visible.

Possible signs of HPV in men

Symptoms of HPV infection in men may include discomfort and burning when urinating, frequent urges if warts have "settled" in the urethra or bladder. With ulceration of these formations, a bacterial infection joins, chronic urethritis or cystitis develops.

Pain during bowel movements is caused by warts in the rectum and around the anus. There may be pain when walking, with prolonged sitting, blood remains on toilet paper or underwear. When a bacterial infection is attached, paraproctitis develops - a purulent inflammation of the tissues of the rectum.

Other possible symptoms:

  • Burning and itching of the genitals;
  • Discomfort and pain during intercourse;
  • heaviness in the lower back and lower abdomen;
  • Signs of general intoxication of the body (headache, chills, weakness, fever).

Possible signs of HPV in women

Genital and flat warts in women can also be localized in the urethra, which leads to discomfort when trying to urinate and even urinary retention.

When genital warts are located in the anus, vagina, there may be a sensation of a foreign object inside, pain and burning during defecation, sexual intercourse.

A symptom of HPV infection specific to women is intraepithelial neoplasia of the cervix of varying degrees. This is a precancerous change in squamous epithelial cells, which, without treatment, can degenerate into cancer.

Dysplasia, like cervical cancer, does not hurt, is not visible from the outside and does not bother the woman. Therefore, you need to carefully listen to your body and be sure to regularly undergo an examination by a gynecologist.

Indirect signs of precancerous changes in the epithelium of the cervical mucosa or cancer:

  • Recurrent spotting between periods (or during menopause), from slight to profuse (in the later stages);
  • Menstrual irregularities;
  • Vaginal bleeding after intercourse or other mechanical intervention (douching, gynecological examination);
  • Heaviness, discomfort in the vagina and lower abdomen;
  • Serous or serous-bloody discharge from the vagina, in the later stages of cancer - with an unpleasant odor;
  • Prolonged weakness and a slight increase in body temperature.

When these signs appear, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor for examination.

Diagnosis of diseases caused by HPV

If HPV is suspected, a man needs to visit a urologist, and a woman - gynecology. Another possible option is to come to a specialized dermatovenerological dispensary, where the relevant specialists receive.

If condylomas are located on the external genital organs, then the doctor will see them during the examination. If there are no external signs, changes in the epithelium of the genitourinary organs can be detected during ureteroscopy and rectoscopy with corresponding complaints in men.

Women are examined on a gynecological chair with the help of instruments (Cusco mirror, Sims mirror). In addition to a visual assessment of the condition, during the examination, a Pap test, a PCR smear can be performed.

The PAP test is a sampling of a cervical smear-imprint (scrape) with its application to a glass slide and drying. The material obtained during these studies (a piece of cervical mucosa) is sent for cytology (laboratory examination under a microscope to detect atypical - altered cells).

Signs of atypicality may be a change in the size, shape or color of the nucleus, changes in the cytoplasm. If such cells are found, a more detailed study is required. Cytology will not give an answer to the question of whether it is dysplasia or already cancer. This requires histology.

For histological analysis, a biopsy is performed - taking a piece of the mucous membrane with special tools. Histology makes it possible to determine the degree of changes, as well as their good quality or malignancy.

Smears for PCR analysis are taken from both men (urethra) and women (cervix). For analysis, scraping of the mucosa is used. Even for PCR analysis, they can take blood and other biological

Recently, a highly sensitive analysis for papillomavirus has appeared - the diving test. Scraping is also taken for him. This analysis allows to identify highly oncogenic subspecies of the virus, leading to the development of cervical neoplasia.

Another way to detect the virus in the blood is ELISA. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detects the amount and type of HPV antibodies in the body. This makes it possible to determine the presence of the pathogen and the strength of the immune response to it, but not the subspecies of the virus. Usually, an ELISA test is prescribed together with PCR.

Timely treatment of neoplasia, genital warts and other manifestations, as well as a healthy lifestyle and sexual intercourse with a constant proven partner will protect against cancer and other unpleasant consequences of HPV.

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