How to Cope With HPV
HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a virus that affects both men and women. HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in the U.S., affecting more than 20 million Americans. Some strains of HPV cause genital warts and others are associated with an increased risk of cervical, anal, and penile cancer. In most cases, HPV causes no symptoms.
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Instructions
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Speak with your doctor about HPV and learn all you can about the virus and its effects on your body. You are less likely to be ashamed and will likely find it easier to cope with HPV if you fully understand your diagnosis.
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Treat warts caused by HPV using topical creams such as imiquimod, or with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) applications. Cryosurgery, which uses liquid nitrogen to freeze warts, and interferon injections are also effective treatments for HPV warts. Laser therapy is another option, but this treatment is expensive and may lead to scarring.
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Keep your yearly appointments for pap smears if you are a woman. HPV increases your risk of cervical cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cervical cancer is a potentially fatal form of cancer that is highly treatable when caught early.
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Undergo a cervical biopsy if your annual pap smear comes back abnormal. A biopsy can determine if cervical cell changes are related to HPV, cervical cancer, or another condition.
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Tell past and potential sexual partners about your HPV diagnosis to avoid transmitting the virus to them during sexual intercourse. Duke University states that wearing condoms during sexual intercourse helps reduce the risk of passing HPV to sexual partners.
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Tell your obstetrician about your HPV diagnosis immediately after finding out you are pregnant. Rarely, HPV may cause complications during pregnancy and delivery, and it is possible for a pregnant mother to pass HPV to her baby and cause a condition known as recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Your doctor will be able to reduce the risk of complications if he is aware of your HPV.
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Join a support group for HPV. Some larger hospitals offer support groups for individuals with genital warts and HPV, and a number of online support groups are also available. If you are uncomfortable joining a group, speak with a trusted family member or friend.
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Eat a balanced diet, get plenty of exercise, and sleep at least eight hours a day to maintain a healthy immune system and reduce the frequency and severity of HPV flare-ups.
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Tips & Warnings
According to the American Social Health Association, there is currently no cure for HPV infection.
