HPV : Causes, Symptoms and Treatment in Women

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a highly common, sexually transmitted virus.

It causes a viral infection which can cause symptoms like genital warts, cervical and anal cancer and cancers of the throat. Or it may not cause any symptoms at all.

There are more than 100 types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Only about 14 strains are serious. Of these strains 6,11, 16 and 18 are high risk variants. Most are harmless and do not cause any symptoms.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of HPV?

Most people with HPV don't have symptoms and may never know they are infected. But when symptoms occur, they can include:

Warts:

1. Genital warts – Genital warts are small, bumpy, or fleshy growths in the genital or anal area or surrounding skin. They can be single or form clusters resembling a cauliflower. They may be skin-colored, whitish-grey, or brownish and can range from flat to raised. They can also look like thin finger-like projections on the skin. They are primarily caused by HPV types 6 and 11. These types are low-risk and generally do not cause cancer.
2. Oropharyngeal Warts (Warts in the throat) – HPV can cause warts in the throat. They are usually harmless and non-cancerous and are caused by the HPV strains 6 and 11. Most oral HPV infections are asymptomatic and clear on their own, but high-risk strains can increase the risk of cancers.
3. Plantar Warts – Plantar warts are caused by low risk strains of HPV. They are hard, grainy growths that usually appear on the heels or balls of the feet, causing discomfort.
4. Flat warts : These occur anywhere on the body . These warts are generally harmless and need treatment only for cosmetic reasons.

Cervical Cancer : An abnormal Pap smear result is often the first sign of cervical cancer. Persistent infections with high-risk types (especially HPV 16 and 18) are responsible for over 99% of cervical cancers. This progression from HPV infection to cervical cancer usually takes 15 to 20 years and can be prevented entirely through routine screening and vaccination.

Cancer symptoms (if left undetected for years):

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Pain during sex
• Persistent sore throat or ear pain (throat cancer)
• Lumps or swelling in the neck
• Anal bleeding or pain

How does HPV infection spread?

HPV is a virus which spreads very fast. The infection is primarily caused by direct skin-to-skin contact, most commonly during vaginal, anal, or oral sexual activity. The virus enters the body through tiny cuts or abrasions in the skin or mucous membranes. Harmless strains of HPV usually spread by skin to skin contact . High risk strains like 6, 11 , 16 and 18 mainly spread by sexual contact.

What are some Myths and Facts About HPV?

Myth

Fact

Only women need to worry about HPV

HPV affects both men and women equally

You can only get HPV if you have many partners

Even one partner is enough if they carry the virus

Condoms fully protect against HPV

They lower the risk but don't fully prevent it (HPV can infect uncovered skin)

HPV always leads to cancer

Most infections clear on their own; only persistent high-risk types may cause cancer

If you get vaccinated, you don't need Pap smears

Vaccination doesn't replace routine cervical cancer screening

What is the HPV Vaccine Schedule?

Age

Number of Doses

Timing

9–14 years

2 doses

Second dose 6–12 months after the first

15 years and older

3 doses

Second dose after 1–2 months, third dose at 6 months

Immunocompromised (any age)

3 doses

Same as 15+ schedule

• The vaccine is most effective when given before sexual exposure.
• Approved for use up to age 45 in some cases.

When Should I See a Doctor for HPV Symptoms?

Many people with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) have no symptoms at all. In fact, most HPV infections clear on their own within 1–2 years. However, some types of HPV can cause genital warts or increase the risk of certain cancers. Knowing when to seek medical advice is important.

You should see a doctor if you notice:

Small bumps or growths around the genital or anal area

• Flesh-colored, pink, or gray bumps
• Single warts or clusters that resemble cauliflower

Persistent itching, burning, or discomfort

• Symptoms that do not improve after a few days
• Irritation that interferes with daily activities

Unusual vaginal bleeding

• Bleeding after sex
• Bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after menopause

Pain during sexual intercourse

• Especially if it is new or persistent

Abnormal vaginal discharge

• Foul-smelling, watery, or blood-stained discharge should always be checked.

Persistent pelvic pain

• Particularly if it occurs along with abnormal bleeding or discharge.

You should also see a doctor if:

• You think you have been exposed to HPV.
• Your partner has been diagnosed with HPV or genital warts.
• You have never had a Pap smear or are overdue for cervical cancer screening.
• You are due for the HPV vaccine and want to know if it is right for you.
• You have a weakened immune system (such as from HIV infection or certain medications).

Seek urgent medical attention if you have:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe pelvic pain
• A rapidly growing genital lump
• Difficulty passing urine because of large genital warts

Most HPV infections are not serious, especially when detected early. Regular Pap smears, HPV testing, and HPV vaccination are the best ways to prevent HPV-related cancers.