Hpv Diagnosis

Irresponsible sexual activity might elicit a need to test for HPV diagnosis. The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) represents over 100 different strains, including 30 cancerous classifications which transmit genital warts upon sexual contact. Higher-risk HPV may infect the cervix, vulva, vagina, and anus in women, while having an effect on the penis and anus in men. Wearing condoms does not ensure protection against the HPV virus, therefore a normal test result requires preventative measures. A number of tests and treatments can help eliminate the genital warts, and detect potentially fatal infections once contracted.

Pap smears. A pap smear detects abnormal cell mutations in the cervix of women. Finding these abnormal conditions raises red flags during the testing process. A broad scale evaluation narrows down the normalcy of the cell mutations into two classifications: high-risk or low-risk. DNA HPV tests analyzes the results of the pap smear for further diagnosis. Pap smears and HPV testing are recommended for all women over the age of eighteen.

HPV testing for men. Unfortunately, the medical establishment has not discovered HPV testing for men. However, genital warts remains as an early sign of infection. Seeing a doctor for proper assessment of genital warts may prevent spreading the infection. A doctor should determine whether or not the infection requires treatment, or if the symptoms will disappear on their own. Using sound judgment, committing to one sexual partner at a time in a monogamous relationship, and exercising due vigilance can assure infection never occurs in the first place.