What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that can infect different parts of the body. There are more than 100 types of HPV.

• Some types cause skin warts on the hands, feet, or face.
• About 30 types affect the genital area, including the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, anus, and rectum.
• Some HPV types cause genital warts, while others are called high-risk HPV because they can lead to cancer.

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Most sexually active people who are not vaccinated will get HPV at least once in their lifetime—often without knowing it.

Why is HPV important for women’s health?

Certain high-risk HPV types can cause:

• Cervical cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer

The good news is that regular screening (Pap smear and HPV testing) can detect early cell changes and prevent cancer from developing.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Most HPV infections do not cause any symptoms and go away on their own.

When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Genital warts, which look like small, rough, cauliflower-shaped growths
• Warts may appear weeks, months, or even years after infection
• Genital warts may be itchy or uncomfortable

High-risk HPV usually does not cause symptoms until it leads to serious problems like cancer.

Are all warts caused by HPV?

Yes, all warts are caused by HPV, but not all HPV types cause warts.

• HPV types 6 and 11 usually cause genital warts
• Other HPV types cause:
  • Flat warts
  • Plantar warts (on feet)
  • Warts around nails

The HPV types that cause warts are different from the types that cause cancer.

Who can get HPV?

Anyone can get HPV through:

• Vaginal, oral, or anal sex
• Close skin-to-skin genital contact

HPV can spread even when there are no visible symptoms. A person can pass HPV to a partner without knowing they have it.

People with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV) may have more difficulty clearing the virus.

How does HPV affect women?

In women, HPV can cause:

• Genital warts
• Abnormal Pap smear results
• Cervical cancer (if high-risk HPV is not detected early)

Regular Pap smears and HPV tests help detect changes early and prevent cancer.

How does HPV affect men?

In men, HPV:

• Usually clears on its own
• May cause genital warts
• Rarely causes cancers of the penis, anus, or throat

Routine HPV testing is not usually required for men, but they can still spread the virus.

What are the complications of HPV?

Possible complications include:

• Cervical cancer (most common)
• Anal cancer
• Vaginal and vulvar cancer
• Penile cancer
• Throat and mouth cancer
• Genital warts

Having HPV does not mean you will get cancer, especially if regular screening is done.

How is HPV diagnosed?

HPV is diagnosed through:

• Pap smear – checks for abnormal or precancerous cervical cells
• HPV test – detects high-risk HPV types linked to cervical cancer

Additional tests may include:

• Colposcopy – closer examination of the cervix
• Biopsy – removal of abnormal tissue for testing
• VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) – used in areas with limited testing facilities

How is HPV treated?

There is no treatment that removes HPV from the body, but treatments can remove warts or abnormal cells.

Treatment options include:

• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• Laser treatment
• Electrocautery
• LEEP procedure
• Medicated creams
• Removal of abnormal cervical tissue

Most people who have HPV do not need any treatment.

What can I expect if I have HPV?

In most cases:

• The body usually gets rid of HPV within 12 to 24 months.
• No long-term problems occur
• Regular check-ups help keep you safe.

If you have a high-risk type of HPV, your doctor will keep a close watch to help prevent any problems.

Is HPV curable?

No, HPV has no cure, but:

• The immune system clears most infections naturally
• Regular screening prevents HPV-related cancers

Is HPV contagious forever?

No. You can spread HPV only while the virus is active in your body. Once cleared, you are no longer contagious.

Can HPV be prevented?

Yes, the risk can be greatly reduced by:

• HPV vaccination (recommended at ages 11–12, but beneficial later too)
• Regular Pap smears and HPV testing
• Safer sex practices (condoms and dental dams)
• Informing partners if you are diagnosed

When should I see a doctor?

You should consult a doctor if you have:

• Genital warts
• Abnormal Pap smear results
• Concerns about HPV exposure
• A weakened immune system

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Human Papillomavirus (HPV) treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced gynecologists and women’s health specialists, known as some of the best doctors for cervical and sexual health care. We provide accurate diagnosis with HPV testing and Pap smear, personalized medical care, vaccination guidance, and treatment for HPV-related conditions. Our Gynecology team has decades of experience in successfully managing Human Papillomavirus in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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