Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection Treatment in Gurgaon

There are many types of human papillomavirus (HPV), and they can be broadly grouped according to the health problems they may cause. While many HPV infections clear naturally without causing serious health concerns, certain types may cause warts or lead to abnormal cell changes.

1. Low-Risk HPV Types

Low-risk HPV types are commonly associated with genital warts and other non-cancerous growths. These types generally do not cause cancer but may lead to visible warts in the genital or anal area.

2. High-Risk HPV Types

High-risk HPV types may cause abnormal changes in cells. If the infection persists over a long period, these changes can increase the risk of certain cancers, including:

• Cervical cancer

• Anal cancer

• Penile cancer

• Vaginal and vulval cancers

• Certain cancers of the throat and mouth

High-risk HPV infection often does not cause noticeable symptoms. Regular screening and appropriate follow-up are therefore important for detecting abnormal cell changes at an early stage.

3. Cutaneous HPV Infection

Some HPV types affect the skin and may cause common warts on areas such as the hands, fingers, feet, or other parts of the body. These types are generally different from the HPV types commonly associated with genital infections.

4. Genital HPV Infection

Genital HPV affects the genital and anal areas and is commonly transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Depending on the HPV type, the infection may cause genital warts or remain asymptomatic while causing abnormal cellular changes.

The type of HPV and its potential health effects can vary from person to person. Consult a gynae specialist and following recommended screening guidelines can help ensure timely evaluation and appropriate care.

Many people with HPV infection do not experience any symptoms. This means the infection may remain unnoticed and can sometimes be detected only through screening or evaluation for another health concern.

Depending on the type of HPV, symptoms may include:

• Small growths or warts in the genital area

• Groups of small, flesh-coloured or raised bumps

• Itching or discomfort around genital warts

• Warts around the anus

• Abnormal changes detected during cervical screening

• Growths or warts affecting other areas of the body

High-risk HPV types often do not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. This is why regular cervical screening, when recommended, is important.

The human papillomavirus causes HPV infection. The virus can enter the body through small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes.

HPV can spread through:

• Intimate skin-to-skin contact

• Vaginal sexual contact

• Anal sexual contact

• Oral sexual contact

• Direct contact with infected genital skin

It is important to understand that a person can have HPV and transmit the virus even when they have no visible symptoms or genital warts.

HPV infection is common, and having HPV does not necessarily mean that a person will develop serious health problems. The health effects depend on the type of HPV and whether the infection persists.

The approach to diagnosing HPV depends on the affected area, symptoms, age, and individual risk factors.

Your doctor may recommend:

• Physical Examination: A doctor may examine visible genital warts or other abnormal growths.

• Cervical Screening: Cervical screening tests may help detect abnormal changes in cervical cells. Depending on the situation, an HPV test may also be used to detect certain high-risk types of the virus.

• HPV Testing: HPV testing may be recommended in specific situations, particularly as part of cervical cancer screening or follow-up after an abnormal screening result.

• Colposcopy: If screening results are abnormal, a doctor may recommend a colposcopy to examine the cervix and identify abnormal areas closely.

• Biopsy: In certain cases, a small tissue sample may be collected and examined to confirm the diagnosis or assess abnormal cells.

The tests recommended will depend on your symptoms and individual medical needs.

Treatment of human papillomavirus infection focuses on managing conditions caused by HPV and monitoring abnormal cell changes.

Treatment for Genital Warts: Depending on the size, location, and number of warts, treatment may include:

• Prescription topical medicines

• Cryotherapy to freeze the warts

• Cauterisation or other procedures to remove abnormal tissue

• Surgical removal in selected cases

Treatment can remove visible warts, but HPV may remain in the body for some time, and warts can sometimes return.

Monitoring Abnormal Cervical Cells: If HPV causes abnormal cervical cell changes, your doctor may recommend regular follow-up, repeat testing, or treatment to remove abnormal cells when required.

Treatment for HPV-Related Conditions: Persistent HPV infection associated with precancerous changes or other HPV-related conditions may require specialised treatment depending on the affected area.

Avoid using over-the-counter wart treatments on genital warts unless specifically advised by a doctor.

HPV is common and can affect sexually active individuals. Certain factors may increase the risk of exposure or persistent infection, including:

• Having intimate or sexual contact with an infected person

• Multiple sexual partners

• Beginning sexual activity at a young age

• A weakened immune system

• Smoking

• Previous or persistent HPV infection

• Not receiving recommended HPV vaccination

Using barrier protection can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, but it may not provide complete protection because HPV can affect areas not covered by a barrier.

Although it may not always be possible to completely prevent HPV infection, several measures can help reduce the risk.

• HPV Vaccination: HPV vaccination can help protect against certain types of HPV associated with genital warts and HPV-related cancers. Speak with your doctor about whether HPV vaccination is appropriate for you or your child.

• Practice Safer Intimate Contact: Using barrier protection during sexual activity can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, although it does not provide complete protection.

• Attend Recommended Screening: Regular cervical screening can help detect abnormal cell changes early, before they develop into more serious conditions.

• Avoid Smoking: Smoking may contribute to persistent HPV infection and increases the risk of certain HPV-related health problems.

• Seek Medical Advice for Unusual Symptoms: Get expert gynaecology care if you notice genital warts, unusual growths, persistent changes, or receive an abnormal cervical screening result.

Miracles Healthcare is a top-rated gynaecology hospital in Gurgaon, providing comprehensive diagnosis, screening, and treatment for various gynaecological and women's health concerns. Our experienced team of 50+ female gynaecologists focuses on understanding each patient's symptoms, medical history, screening results, and individual health needs to provide personalised care and appropriate treatment.

Whether you have noticed genital warts, received an abnormal HPV or cervical screening result, or have concerns about HPV infection, our healthcare team can guide you through the appropriate next steps.

Don't ignore unusual symptoms or delay follow-up after an abnormal screening result. Book Your Consultation with an Experienced Gynaecologist in Gurgaon at Miracles Healthcare, to help assess your condition, recommend appropriate diagnostic tests, and guide you towards suitable treatment or monitoring.