What Is HPV? (Human Papillomavirus)

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is one of the most common viral infections in the world, and almost every sexually active person will encounter at least one HPV type during their lifetime. Most HPV types are harmless, but some cause genital warts, while others can lead to cervical, anal, penile and throat cancers if not detected early.

At the core, HPV is a virus that lives in the skin and mucosal tissues. Many people carry it without knowing, because the virus can remain completely silent for months or even years.

Key Facts About HPV

• There are more than 300 types of HPV
• Around 40 types infect the genital area
• Some types cause lythat (genital warts)
• High-risk types may lead to cervical cancer
• HPV usually shows no symptoms
• Most infections clear naturally, but some persist
• Early testing prevents long-term complications

HPV is common, silent, and often misunderstood — but with the right screening, it becomes manageable and preventable.

How HPV Affects Women and Men

Women

• Can cause cervical dysplasia (CIN1–2–3)
• Associated with cervical cancer in 99% of cases
• May lead to vaginal or vulvar lesions

Men

• May cause genital warts
• Can infect the penile shaft, scrotum, anal region
• Often asymptomatic yet transmissible

Both partners can carry HPV even if only one has visible symptoms.

Why HPV Matters

Because HPV can remain dormant for years, people often don’t know they are infected.
This is why HPV is:

• Common but preventable
• Silent but detectable
• Potentially dangerous but treatable

With regular gynecological examination, HPV DNA testing and Pap testing, HPV-related cancers can be completely prevented.

Can HPV Be Treated?

There is no medication that removes HPV from the body instantly. You immune system will defeat this virus.
That’s why, we focus on:

• Boosting the immune system
• Eliminating visible lesions (warts)
• Monitoring cervical cells
• Treating abnormal cell changes early
• Vaccination for long-term protection

HPV may be cleaned by your immune system, but lesions must be treated with the right method (laser, RF, etc.).

Prevention and Vaccination

HPV vaccines protect against the most dangerous and most common types:

• Wart-causing types (6/11)
• Cancer-causing types (16/18/31/33/45/52/58 depending on vaccine)

Vaccination is recommended for:

• Adolescents (ideal age 12)
• Adults with no upper age limit
• Individuals already diagnosed with HPV (to prevent future infections)

When Should You Get Tested for HPV?

Testing is recommended if:

• You are 25–65 years old
• You have an abnormal Pap test
• You have had unprotected sexual contact
• Your partner has genital warts or HPV
• You notice symptoms like bleeding or discharge

HPV DNA testing is the most reliable method to identify the exact virus type.

Book Your Appointment

If you want a reliable HPV evaluation or need treatment for genital lesions, you can contact Dr. Eser Agar directly for a private and confidential appointment.

Contact & Appointments

For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.

📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.

💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 456 4467
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.

Update date: 19.09.2026 23:58