Human Papillomavirus Infection in Females

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Safer sex practices can help lower a woman's risk of HPV infection. The use of male condoms or female condoms can reduce, but does not always prevent, catching or spreading the human papilloma virus. The virus may be outside the "field of protection," such as on the scrotum or the outer area of the vagina. Avoiding sexual intercourse is the only definite way of avoiding genital warts. Having sex with only one partner, who is disease-free, is the most practical way of avoiding STDs.

To prevent spreading the virus to other areas of the body, hands should be washed after touching the area where the warts are located. A hair dryer can be used to keep the area dry. Sexual contact should be avoided until all warts are healed after treatment. Scratching of warts should be avoided because they may bleed and spread.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Certain types of human papilloma virus are associated with genital warts and have a small chance of causing cancer. Several other types of HPV are associated with cervical dysplasia and even cancer of the cervix, vagina, and vulva. A woman who has an HPV infection combined with genital herpes may further increase the risk of cervical cancer. If a woman with HPV smokes, her chance of developing cervical dysplasia is also much higher.

During pregnancy, genital warts of HPV may grow to an extremely large size. This may result in heavy bleeding during a vaginal delivery of the child. There is also a risk of transmitting the virus to the infant's vocal cords. Extensive growth of warts during pregnancy may require a cesarean section for these reasons.

What are the risks to others?

Human papilloma virus is highly contagious and can be spread through sexual intercourse and other intimate contact. It can also be transmitted to the vocal cords of a newborn during delivery.