Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Diagnosis, Research & Management
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects individuals with ovaries, often during their reproductive years. Characterized
Gynaecology > HPV
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viral infections affecting the skin and moist membrane linings of the cervix, anus, mouth, and throat. It is typically transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact of the genital area during intercourse.
Condoms reduce your risk of contracting HPV but are not 100% effective against transmission of the virus. If you are sexually active, regular HPV screening is highly recommended.
There are over 100 types of HPV, with 30 affecting the genitals. HPV typically does not present with symptoms, although an HPV infection can lead to genital warts and abnormal tissue and cell growth in the cervix, which in some cases can lead to cervical cancer.
General testing for HPV is done as part of our cervical smear testing. In the event of a positive test result, we can also tell you which subtype of HPV you have, which provides an assessment of your risk of cervical cancer or genital warts, and an indication of how regularly you should be tested.
It is estimated that eight out of ten people in the UK will contract an HPV infection at some point in their lives. There is no treatment for the virus itself, but the effects of infection can be managed.
Anyone who is sexually active can contract HPV. Certain factors may increase the risk, such as having multiple sexual partners, having a weakened immune system, or starting sexual activity at a young age.
For those at risk, regular screenings and early detection are crucial. Pap tests and HPV tests are used to screen for cervical cancer and detect HPV infections early when treatment is most effective.
Vaccination against HPV is highly effective in preventing infection with the most common types of the virus that cause cancer and genital warts. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls starting at age 11 or 12, but it can be given as early as age 9.
Provided you have not yet been sexually active, you can also get the HPV vaccination. If you have been sexually active, we advise that you get tested for HPV before receiving the vaccine.
HPV is a diverse group of viruses, and there are several subtypes categorised based on their genetic differences and their association with different health outcomes. The subtypes of HPV are classified into two main categories:
Low-risk HPV types: These types of HPV infections generally do not cause cancer but can cause benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as genital warts.
High-risk HPV types: These types are more likely to cause cancer, including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar, and some head and neck cancers.
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When you are setting up your screening appointment, it is best to avoid scheduling it when you are menstruating. This is to make sure the test is as accurate as possible and to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Menstrual blood can sometimes obscure the cells collected during the test.
Screening for HPV usually includes a standard cervical smear test. During the test, a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to hold the vaginal walls open, enabling the healthcare provider to reach the cervix. Using a soft swab or brush, cells are collected from the cervix for analysis.
Once your screening results are available, your healthcare provider will reach out to you directly to go over them and discuss any next steps that may be needed. Once you have had this conversation with your doctor and any required follow-up steps are decided upon, we will proceed to send you the results via email.
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