Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. It is caused by various strains of the HPV virus, some of which can lead to the development of genital warts (condyloma). These warts appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area, and while they are generally benign, some HPV strains are associated with more serious conditions, including cervical cancer in women.

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause genital warts (condyloma) and is associated with certain cancers, including cervical cancer. Understanding the risk factors, modes of transmission, and preventive measures is crucial for reducing the spread and impact of HPV.

By understanding the  adopting preventive strategies, modes of transmission and employing preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting and spreading genital HPV.

Risk factors for transmission of genital HPV

Several factors can increase the risk of transmitting and contracting genital HPV:

Sexual Activity

• Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the likelihood of encountering an HPV-infected individual.
• Early Sexual Activity: Becoming sexually active at a younger age increases the risk of HPV infection due to a longer potential period of exposure.

Unprotected Sex

• Inconsistent Condom Use: Not using condoms consistently during sexual activity increases the risk of HPV transmission, as condoms do not cover all genital skin and HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.

Weakened Immune System

• Immunosuppression: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive medications, are at a higher risk of contracting HPV and developing complications.

Existing STIs

• Other Sexually Transmitted Infections: Having another STI, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, can increase susceptibility to HPV infection.

Personal and Partner History

• History of HPV: Having a previous HPV infection increases the risk of reinfection with different strains of the virus.
• Partner’s Sexual History: Having a partner with a high number of past sexual partners or a history of STIs can increase the risk of HPV transmission.

Lack of Vaccination

• Not Being Vaccinated: Individuals who have not received the HPV vaccine are at a higher risk of contracting the virus.

Smoking

• Tobacco Use: Smoking can weaken the immune system, making it more difficult to clear HPV infections and increasing the risk of developing HPV-related health issues.

Pregnancy and Childbirth

• Mother-to-Child Transmission: An HPV-infected mother can transmit the virus to her baby during childbirth, leading to respiratory papillomatosis in the child.

Genital HPBV (conduloma) transmission routes

Transmission Routes of Genital HPV (Condyloma)

Sexual Contact

• Vaginal Sex: HPV is most commonly transmitted through vaginal intercourse with an infected partner.
• Anal Sex: Anal intercourse can also spread HPV, regardless of the gender of the partners.
• Oral Sex: Engaging in oral sex with an infected person can lead to HPV infections in the mouth and throat.

Skin-to-Skin Contact

• Genital Contact: HPV can be transmitted through direct genital-to-genital contact, even without penetrative sex.
• Non-Penetrative Sexual Activities: Activities such as genital rubbing or touching an infected area and then touching one’s own genitals can spread the virus.

Non-Sexual Routes

• Mother-to-Child Transmission: During childbirth, an infected mother can pass the virus to her baby, potentially leading to respiratory papillomatosis in the child.
• Contaminated Objects: Although rare, HPV can be transmitted through contact with objects that have been in contact with the virus, such as sex toys, if they are shared without proper cleaning.

Genital HPBV (conduloma) prevention methods

Prevention Methods for Genital HPV (Condyloma)

Vaccination

• HPV Vaccine: One of the most effective prevention strategies is vaccination. The HPV vaccine protects against the most common and high-risk strains of the virus that cause genital warts and cervical cancer. It is recommended for preteens aged 11-12 but can be administered to individuals starting from age 9 up to 26, and sometimes older, depending on individual health circumstances.

Condom Use

• Barrier Protection: Using condoms consistently and correctly during all forms of sexual activity (vaginal, anal, and oral) can significantly reduce the risk of HPV transmission. However, since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom, this method does not provide complete protection.

Regular Screening

• Cervical Cancer Screening: Regular Pap tests and HPV tests for women are crucial for early detection of cervical changes caused by HPV. Detecting and treating precancerous conditions early can prevent cervical cancer from developing.
• HPV Testing: For women over 30, co-testing (Pap test combined with HPV test) is recommended as part of routine screening.

Limiting Number of Sexual Partners

• Risk Reduction: Reducing the number of sexual partners can lower the risk of HPV infection. Engaging in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected also reduces risk.

Lifestyle Choices

• Immune System Support: Smoking can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off HPV infections. Avoiding tobacco use can help maintain a stronger immune system, reducing the risk of developing HPV-related health issues.
• Healthy Immune System: Maintain a healthy immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Communication and Education

1. Informed Decisions: Educating oneself and one’s partner(s) about HPV, its transmission, and prevention methods can lead to informed decisions about sexual health and preventive measures.
2. Regular Health Check-ups: Maintaining regular health check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers can ensure timely vaccination, screening, and treatment if necessary.

Summary

Genital HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause genital warts (condyloma) and is linked to certain cancers, such as cervical cancer. Key risk factors include multiple sexual partners, early sexual activity, inconsistent condom use, a weakened immune system, smoking, and lack of vaccination.

Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, and oral sex) and direct skin-to-skin contact. It can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth.

Prevention strategies include vaccination, consistent condom use, regular cervical cancer screenings, limiting sexual partners, avoiding tobacco, and maintaining a healthy immune system. Education and open communication about sexual health are also crucial.

By addressing these factors and adopting preventive measures, the risk of contracting and spreading genital HPV can be significantly reduced.

Prof. Dr. Emin ÖZBEK

Urologist

Istanbul- TURKIYE