home Diseases The first signs of HPV in women are. Human papillomavirus, warts, cramps and burning. Also used as conservative therapy

The first signs of HPV in women are. Human papillomavirus, warts, cramps and burning. Also used as conservative therapy

To identify the cause of the appearance of pathological whites, one medical examination is not enough. Additional laboratory studies are required. Characteristic signs of discharge with papillomavirus:

Abundant and thick white secretion with an unpleasant odor are signs of colpitis, which is often diagnosed with the appearance of HPV and the development of dysplasia. Such secretions may take the form of flakes.
A signal for the development of erosion in HPV can be scanty bloody leucorrhoea, often with an admixture of pus. The mucous mass may have an unpleasant odor.
The secret, with the appearance of which itching, burning and pain occurs, is a sign of a viral infection (especially if the disease is transmitted as a result of an intimate relationship).
Against the background of dysplasia, genital herpes may develop. The characteristic symptoms of its appearance are secretion, accompanied by burning and itching. In the second half of the menstrual cycle, its volume can increase significantly.
Scanty or profuse spotting is the most dangerous. This may be a sign of stage III neoplasia. Diagnosis of the disease is made on the basis of the properties of the secreted vaginal fluid.

To determine the cause of the appearance of uncharacteristic mucus from the vagina, it is necessary to undergo laboratory tests. Timely treatment to the clinic allows you to stop the development of malignant processes at the initial stage. Sometimes it seems that papilloma is an infection that is easy to cure, but if this is not done in time, the consequences can be unpleasant.

Human papillomavirus (HPV, HPV) is a DNA virus that contributes to the active division of body cells, which leads to the appearance of genital warts, warts and papillomas on the skin of the anorectal zone. Today, more than 100 types of human papillomavirus are known to exist, each of which has a different degree of oncogenicity.

The greatest danger of this infection lies in the fact that the papillomavirus in women can cause the development of a malignant tumor of the cervix, vulva or anus. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment of human papillomavirus infection minimizes the risk of developing cancer, especially of the cervix.

Given the danger of this infection, we want to tell you where the human papillomavirus comes from, how papillomavirus infection manifests itself and how to cure it. We will also introduce you to modern methods of diagnosing and preventing human papillomavirus in women.

The type of human papillomavirus determines how papillomavirus infection will develop and manifest itself in the future, as well as the choice of treatment methods.

Human papillomaviruses are usually divided according to the degree of their oncogenicity. Thus, all types of virus can be divided into three groups. HPV typing makes it possible to identify a group of patients with a high risk of developing cancer.

The first group includes five types of non-oncogenic HPV, namely 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The listed types are not oncogenic, therefore they cannot cause cervical cancer.

The second group consists of human papillomavirus types 6, 11, 42, 43 and 44, which have a low degree of oncogenicity. By themselves, representatives of this group cannot cause cancer of the cervix, vulva or anus, but they can prepare fertile ground for the appearance of malignant tumors.

The most dangerous is the third group of HPV, which consists of types such as 16, 18, 31, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 59 and 68. The listed types of HPV have the highest degree of oncogenicity. Almost 80% of women infected with these types of human papillomavirus sooner or later develop cancer of the cervix, vulva or anus, and the risk of breast cancer is also significantly increased.

Human papillomavirus in women: causes

Human papillomavirus DNA is the causative agent of human papillomavirus infection. This virus penetrates not only the mucous layer, but also the deeper layers of the skin.

There are a number of factors that contribute to human papillomavirus infection, namely:

Ways of transmission of human papillomavirus can be as follows:

The main way is sexual transmission. The infection can be transmitted to girls not only during unprotected vaginal and anal intercourse, but also during petting.

If a woman suffers from a papillomavirus infection and there are warts or papillomas on the walls of the vagina or labia, then the child can also become infected with them during childbirth.

Also, HPV infection through handshakes, personal hygiene items, pool water, sauna, etc. is not excluded.

Why is the human papillomavirus dangerous in women?

Human papillomavirus, if the immune system is strong, 90% heals itself. But in the presence of favorable soil, which is created by the above factors, human papillomavirus infection can transform into cancer of the vulva, cervix, labia or anus.

As we have already said, in 70% of women with cervical cancer, human papillomaviruses, which belong to the third group, were identified in the blood. Type 16 and 18 HPV are considered the most dangerous.

The human papillomavirus in women on the cervix requires immediate treatment to exclude the development of dysplasia, and then cancer.

In addition, papillomavirus increases the risk of contracting other genital infections, and can also be transmitted to the child during passage through the genital tract.

Each type of human papillomavirus has its own characteristics and specific symptoms. Let's consider them.

Human papillomavirus type 16 in women

Human papillomavirus 16 is a common type of HPV that is found in more than half of infected people. This type has a high oncogenicity.

The pathogenesis of papillomavirus infection caused by HPV 16 is that the pathogen invades the genome of the cells of the body and blocks the processes of natural antitumor defense, as a result of which papillomas, condylomas or warts appear on the skin.

In infected women with HPV 16, gray or brown, flat, rough patches of various sizes appear on the skin of the genitals and anorectal area. Such rashes are called bowenoid papulosis.

The second sign of a papullovirus infection caused by HPV 16 can be genital warts, which appear not only in the genital area, but also in the eyelids, hips, neck, armpits, etc.

The most dangerous manifestation of HPV 16 is intraepithelial neoplasia of the cervical mucosa, which belongs to precancerous conditions.

Human papillomavirus type 18

HPV 18 is another oncogenic virus that, by integrating into the DNA of human cells, blocks the immune system and promotes the formation of benign tumors. Such tumors are prone to malignancy.

Papillomavirus type 18 in women can cause cervical cancer. This trend was proven by scientists who identified this type of virus in 70% of women with cervical cancer.

Signs of HPV 18 activation:

genital warts on the skin of the genitals and anus. When injured, these neoplasms can bleed. Condylomas are most prone to malignancy;
papillomas. These rounded neoplasms do not differ in color from the skin, but rise above its level. Most often, papillomas affect the skin of the armpit and genital organs, but in advanced cases, they can spread to other areas.
warts, rounded rashes that rise above the skin and are red or dark in color.

HPV 31 is not only dangerous, but also an insidious oncogenic virus, since it can persist in the body asymptomatically for a long time.

Symptoms of papillomavirus infection appear when favorable soil is created in the body, that is, the immune system weakens under the influence of various factors (hypothermia, hormonal failure, exacerbation of chronic diseases, acute infections, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.). Moreover, this type of virus is equally dangerous for both females and males.

Papillomavirus type 31 in women is manifested by papillomas and condylomas in the genital area and anorectal region. There may also be vaginal discharge, soreness during intercourse, discomfort in the vagina, and others.

Human papillomavirus type 33

HPV 33- This is another dangerous virus that can provoke the appearance of a carcinogenic process.

Symptoms of the human papillomavirus type 33 in women can manifest as warts on the genitals. The incubation period of this type of papillomavirus infection is 12-16 weeks. After this time, genital warts on a wide stalk are determined on the labia, the walls of the vagina and the cervix. A feature of warts caused by HPV 33 is that they do not have clear boundaries and a flat surface.

Also, this type of virus can cause a precancerous condition called intraepithelial neoplasia of the cervix.

Human papillomavirus type 35

Human papillomavirus type 35 in women may present with the following symptoms:

the formation of warts, which is more common in girls;
genital warts that occur on the genitals and tissues of the anorectal region. This type of neoplasm progresses very quickly, turning into large spots;
flat warts rarely appear with type 35 papillomavirus infection. But, nevertheless, this type of genital warts is dangerous, because it often degenerates into a cancerous tumor.

These neoplasms are accompanied by severe itching, soreness and discomfort. Women may also have symptoms of intoxication of the body in the form of fever, chills, excessive sweating and general weakness.

Human papillomavirus type 39 is also included in the group of viruses with a high risk of oncogenicity. It should be said that this type of virus is most dangerous for women, since men are mainly carriers of the infection.

Type 39 papillomavirus in women can cause the formation of both warts and papillomas or condylomas, which are prone to degeneration into malignant neoplasms. Most often, such neoplasms are localized on the walls of the vagina and the cervical canal.

Human papillomavirus type 45

The papillomavirus type 45 in women is also highly oncogenic. Moreover, the first signs of papillomavirus infection can appear even 20 years after infection.

During the course of papillomavirus infection caused by type 45 virus, three stages are distinguished. The first stage is characterized by the appearance of genital warts and genital warts. The second stage of the disease is accompanied by dysplasia of the epithelium of the cervix. The most dangerous third stage, which is characterized by the development of cancer of the cervix, vulva or anus.

Human papillomavirus type 51

Symptoms of human papillomavirus type 51 in women appear already in the incubation period, which can last several years. In this period, single genital warts, genital or flat condylomas are poured out in women. The classical localization of these neoplasms is the genital organs (vaginal walls, cervix, small and large labia), but the process can also spread to the eyelids, inguinal and axillary region.

What type 51 papillomavirus infection looks like can be seen in the presented photos.

Human papillomavirus type 52

A feature of the human papillomavirus type 52 in women is that it is activated mainly during the period when the aging of the body begins (after 35 years).

For this type of papillomavirus infection, the same symptoms are characteristic as for other types, namely: warts and condylomas on the genitals, as well as cervical dysplasia.

Human papillomavirus type 56 is characterized by a short incubation period (up to three months).

Symptoms of type 56 papillomavirus in women appear at the end of the incubation period and are characterized by the formation of genital warts and genital warts on a thin stalk, which are localized on the walls of the vagina and cervix. In advanced cases, cervical dysplasia occurs, which is a precancerous condition.

Human papillomavirus type 59

A distinctive feature of the human papillomavirus type 59 in women can be called the fact that warts and condylomas affect not only the genitals, but also the anus and rectum, which increases the risk of getting anorectal cancer.

Warts reach a fairly large size (up to 10 mm) and have a rough surface and uneven edges, which can be seen in the photo.

Genital warts have a thin stalk and a pointed apex (see photo). The color of warts may differ from skin color.

Papillomas are characterized by rapid growth and spread.

Skin rashes (warts, warts and papillomas) can be easily seen during external and internal gynecological examination (see photo).

Also, in the process of diagnosing HPV, colposcopy can be used - examination of the cervix with a special device - a colposcope, which allows you to enlarge the image several times and even display the image on a computer monitor.

But the most accurate diagnostic method is an analysis for the human papillomavirus, which is carried out using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

PCR is used both to confirm the presence of the human papillomavirus in the female body, and to identify its type.

The "gold standard" for diagnosing HPV is the Digene-Test, which determines the number of viral bodies in the body. Knowing the number of viruses in the body, you can estimate the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Also, all patients with suspected HPV are assigned a cytological examination.

How to treat human papillomavirus in women?

Treatment of human papillomavirus in women can be conservative and surgical.

Tablets from the human papillomavirus should have both antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. The following medications are considered the most effective today:

Monotherapy with these drugs is rarely used. Basically, one drug is combined with another, for example, Allokin-alpha is prescribed systemically, and Epigen-Intim cream is locally prescribed. Also, therapy is supplemented with immunomodulators, such as Likopid, Immunomax and others.

Since genital warts, papillomas, genital warts and cervical dysplasia increase the risk of cancer, they are removed using minimally invasive surgical techniques, which include the following:

electrocoagulation;
laser removal;
cryodestruction;
chemodestruction;
removal by radio waves and others.

In severe cases, amputation of the cervix may be used.

Is there a specific prevention of human papillomavirus?

Today, two vaccinations against the human papillomavirus in women are certified in our country, namely: Gardasil and Cervarix.

These vaccines protect the body against HPV types 16 and 18, which most commonly cause cervical cancer. In the developed countries of America and Europe, these vaccines are included in the vaccination schedule for girls. For example, in Germany, the HPV vaccine is shown to all girls who have reached the age of 12. Vaccination is carried out in three stages.

In Russia, the vaccine can be purchased at the pharmacy chain. The average cost of the drug is 7200 rubles.

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 manifestation	Image	a 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.

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

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.

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, the appearance of 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 because any gynecological diseases reduce local defenses, can lead to further infection with HPV and an increased 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 non-specific 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 conduct 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, 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:

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).
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.
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.
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.
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 always 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.

Measures to prevent the disease 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.