Taking Action Against HPV: A Guide Against the Virus

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects millions of people worldwide. There is no definitive medication or procedure that cures the infection in all cases. However, there are treatments that eliminate the virus in a large percentage of cases or help slow down the infection in other cases.

Medical Treatment vs OTC Products

Medical treatment for HPV in the cervix focuses on procedures that remove abnormal cells caused by the virus to prevent progression to cervical cancer. These procedures can include conization (removal of a portion of the cervix), loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), or cryotherapy, which freeze and destroy the affected cells. These methods are effective in treating precancerous lesions and are performed in a clinical setting.

• The treatment does not eliminate the virus, only the affected area.

On the other hand, pharmaceutical treatment cannot directly eliminate the abnormal cells in the cervix. Instead, it focuses on strengthening the body’s immune system to combat the virus more effectively and potentially help the body control and reduce the viral load. This approach includes the use of vitamin and mineral supplements, as well as immunomodulatory medications that can aid the immune system in fighting the virus.

Similarly, the use of vaginal gels focuses on eliminating the virus in the vaginal, genital, or anal area and reepithelializing, that is, reconstructing the area affected by the virus.

• The treatment eliminates the virus and regenerates the affected area.

Years 0 – 2: Active During the Waiting Period

It is estimated that 80% of sexually active individuals will contract HPV at some point in their lives. Of these cases, 90% of HPV infections resolve on their own within a two-year period.

If the infection has not disappeared within 2 years, it is considered persistent. The process until cervical cancer develops takes about 10 years. During this period, between 2 and 10 years, various medical treatments are available, primarily aimed at removing infected tissue through excision.

What can be done during this waiting period?

There are various potential cures for those who have contracted the virus. Consultation with a doctor is necessary to establish a treatment plan.

Antiviral Therapies:

A promising approach focuses on specific antiviral therapies for HPV. These are medications and pharmacy products that directly attack the virus, inhibiting its replication and allowing the immune system to eliminate it more effectively.

At the same time, these therapies regenerate the cervical epithelium. The cervix is covered by a specific type of tissue called cervical epithelium. The structure of cervical epithelium is particularly important in the context of cervical cancer prevention. Cervical epithelial cells can undergo precancerous changes due to persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and early detection and treatment of these changes are crucial for cervical cancer prevention.

Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy emerges as a fascinating option in the fight against HPV. This treatment modality seeks to strengthen the body’s immune system to naturally combat and eliminate the virus. It is an effective tool in eradicating HPV and preventing recurrences.

Importance of Early Detection

While exploring the possibilities of curing HPV is interesting, it is essential to emphasize the importance of early detection. Pap smears and HPV DNA tests are key tools for the early identification of infections, enabling more effective treatment and reducing the risk of complications.

Years 3 – 10: Persistence of Infection

If HPV persists, it can lead to long-term infections. During this time, the virus can integrate into the DNA of infected cells, increasing the risk of precancerous changes.

Precancerous lesions, also known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN), can develop in the cervix. These lesions can progress slowly over several years and have different severity grades (CIN 1, CIN 2, CIN 3), with CIN 3 being the most advanced.

If left untreated, precancerous lesions can evolve into invasive cervical cancer. The transition from precancerous lesions to cancer usually takes several years. Moreover, it is crucial to highlight that not all HPV infections lead to cervical cancer, and the vast majority of infections resolve spontaneously.

Early detection through Pap smears and HPV DNA tests is essential to identify precancerous lesions and provide timely interventions, thus reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer.

How to Act Against Persistent Infection?

There are various medical treatments based on the stage of HPV infection development. During this period, vaginal gels and immune system supplements can continue to be used as directed by a medical professional.

PRE CANCER TREATMENTS

Warts caused by HPV can cause various problems and discomfort for those affected. The discomfort associated with warts varies depending on the location and size of the lesions: from pain when rubbed to emotional impact on the affected person’s self-esteem.

Genital warts, in particular, can cause physical discomfort such as itching, burning, or pain, especially during sexual contact or daily activities. Additionally, certain types of HPV that cause genital warts are associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. It is crucial to undergo screening tests and monitoring to prevent progression to more severe conditions.

Treatments are available for their removal and management.