Studies indicate that HPV can be cured in most cases, with about 90% of people naturally clearing the virus within up to 2 years, especially when they have a healthy immune system. In many cases, the infection may occur without showing any signs or symptoms. Learn more.
The cure for HPV happens when the virus is naturally cleared by the body, a process that depends on the person’s immune system. Although there is no specific treatment to eradicate the virus, over time, the body can fight and eliminate HPV spontaneously. Keep reading to understand more about how this happens!
What Is HPV and How Does It Manifest?
It is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the human Papillomavirus. HPV is transmitted through oral, vaginal, and anal sex without a condom with an infected person.
There are over 200 types of HPV, and types 6, 11, 16, and 18 have the potential to cause cancer in men and women. The symptoms of HPV are wart-like lesions resembling cauliflower on the genitals, anus, throat, and mouth, but they do not appear in the initial phase of the infection.
After All, Does HPV Have a Cure?
Most people affected, especially younger individuals, can recover because their immune system eliminates the virus after a period, usually within up to two years.
However, in some cases, the infection persists, causing damage that, if not treated, can lead to cancer development.
Main Symptoms of HPV in Men and Women
The symptoms of HPV in men and women are the same: cauliflower-like warts on the genitals, anus, mouth, and throat, often accompanied by itching in the area of the wart.
What differentiates the symptoms is the location of the lesions. In men, they affect the glans, the shaft of the penis, or the scrotum. In women, the warts affect the vulva, small and large labia, or the cervix.
How Is HPV Diagnosed?
HPV diagnosis is made by a urologist in the case of men and by a gynecologist in the case of women.
The exams performed include a physical evaluation at the office and a peniscopy, an exam performed by the urologist right in the office that causes no pain. The doctor applies acetic acid to detect very small or microscopic lesions.
In women, the diagnosis is made through a gynecological exam and a Pap smear, a procedure aimed at collecting cells from the cervix for analysis. If there are changes in the cervix, the specialist requests a colposcopy to confirm or rule out the presence of HPV.
If a person has warts on the anus, they should see a proctologist.
What Are the Available Treatments for HPV?
Treatment for HPV aims to control lesions caused by the virus, reducing its impact and possible complications. Urologists and gynecologists may prescribe:
- Ointments, such as imiquimod or podofilotoxin;
- Trichloroacetic acid or dichloroacetic acid, applied by the doctor;
- Interferon injections, a synthetic protein that helps the body fight infections;
- Cryotherapy, a treatment that consists of applying liquid nitrogen to the warts;
- Cauterization, burning the lesion area so that new cells can grow.
Can HPV Disappear on Its Own?
According to this article, HPV disappears on its own in healthy individuals within 1 to 2 years.
Does HPV Increase the Risk of Cancer?
Yes. When the virus does not go away on its own, the infection can cause cellular changes that may develop into penile cancer or cervical cancer, two examples of diseases caused by HPV.
For instance, this research indicates that about 84% of cervical cancer diagnoses are related to HPV.
Regarding penile cancer, this article explains that HPV in men is a risk factor and includes analyses from other studies showing the presence of this STI in 20% of cases in men with malignant tumors of the penis.
HPV Vaccine: Who Should Get It and Why?
One of the ways to prevent HPV is through vaccination. It is offered by the Brazilian public health system (SUS) to the following groups:
- Girls aged 9 to 14;
- Boys aged 11 to 14;
- Men and women who are immunosuppressed or have cancer up to 45 years of age.
According to this Q&A from the Butantan Institute, girls aged 9 to 14 should receive the vaccine because the immune response is more effective in this age group. The institute also explains that the HPV vaccine helps protect children and adolescents before they become sexually active.
The Butantan Institute further explains that vaccinating boys and men is important because they are at a higher risk of HPV reinfection compared to women.
How to Prevent HPV and Avoid Transmission?
Ways to prevent HPV include:
- Using condoms;
- Performing intimate hygiene daily and also after every sexual encounter;
- Not sharing underwear or towels;
- Regular check-ups with a urologist or gynecologist.
When to See a Urologist for an Evaluation?
You should consult a urologist in the following situations:
- Changes such as warts and sores;
- Itching and irritation on the penis;
- A partner diagnosed with HPV.
Knowing about transmission, treatments, and prevention is key to avoiding HPV and other STIs. If you are experiencing changes on your penis such as warts or sores, get a pre-analysis with Dr. Paulo Egydio and receive guidance within 24 hours.
The treatment and progression of HPV vary according to each patient. It is essential to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
