HPV causes changes in the cells of the cervix not at the beginning of infection, but when the infection becomes recurrent. Typically, HPV can develop into cancer over a period of 10 to 20 years.
The HPV strains that cause these changes in the cervix are termed high-risk because they can cause precancerous lesions that may lead to cervical cancer. Let’s look more deeply into this…
Índice
How does HPV affect the cervix?
Generally, HPV is eliminated a few years after infection without causing any damage or showing symptoms. Therefore, some people carry the virus and never even know it.
Once HPV infection occurs, the virus can remain active in the body for months or even years and can be activated by any alteration in the immune system. It is also possible for the immune system to eliminate it on its own.
In case the immune system fails to eliminate the virus, it can cause damage and lead to lesions that can be benign or malignant.
Benign lesions are naturally removed in most cases. Depending on the location and degree of affectation, the doctor will decide whether to excise or indicate other treatment.
On the other hand, premalignant lesions could ultimately become cervical cancer. These types of lesions are known as squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL) or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).
Tests and Cancer
Women, by undergoing a Pap smear, can detect the presence of high-risk types of HPV in the cervical cells.
The result will indicate if there are abnormalities in the cervical cells, presence of HPV, type of virus, and degree of the lesion (low or high grade). High-grade lesions are generally consistent and more likely to become malignant.
Therefore, it’s very important for women from the age of 21, in the presence of any symptom or for periodic checkups, to have this test done. This helps to reduce mortality from this condition.
It’s important to note that not all women who carry high-risk HPV will get cancer just from infection. Cervical cancer is one of the less common complications caused by recurrent HPV infection.
Remember that there are various factors that favor recurrent infection and that the virus doesn’t get eliminated from the body. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, smoking, and any other habits that lower your defenses.
These were some tips to help you know how to deal with HPV. However, there is much more you need to do if you really want to get rid of HPV and warts forever.
What you need to do is GET RID OF THE ROOT of the problem.
For that reason, I recommend you to look into Dr. Kirkland's story and how he was able to cure HPV and get rid of warts for good.
I wish you great success in your recovery!
Frequently asked questions
Does HPV always cause cervical changes?
HPV doesn’t always cause changes in the cervix. Not all strains of HPV are high-risk, that is, those that produce cellular changes in the cervix. There are also low-risk HPV strains, which don’t produce cellular changes. These low-risk strains are the ones that cause genital warts.
What are the odds of HPV turning into cervical cancer?
Only 10% of women with HPV in the cervix will develop HPV infections that last much longer than average, which puts them at risk of developing precancerous cells.
How long does it take for HPV to cause CIN?
50% of women will develop CIN (due to HPV) within 24 months. And 30% of women could develop CIN within 12 months.
How long does it take for HPV to cause LSIL?
In young women, HPV could cause LSIL within 3 years of being infected with the virus.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/test-results.htm
- https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/screening/abnormal-hpv-pap-test-results
- https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/cervical-cancer-screening
Medically reviewed by Dr. Amy Wilson. Dr. Amy Wilson, born in the United States, obtained her medical degree from Lincoln University School of Medicine. Specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, she’s dedicated 15 years to women’s health, becoming a distinguished gynecologist and serving in various U.S. medical institutions.