Busting Common Myths about HPV Infections
It is quite natural for a common disease to be associated with various myths and controversial studies. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is no different. Explore the HPV myths and facts by debunking them in this post.
Debunking HPV Myths: Most Common Misconceptions
Myth - There is no natural cure for HPV infection
Fact - The natural cure exists for helping heal people affected by the HPV virus. This is applicable to both vaccinated and non-vaccinated segments of the population. The name of the cure is HPV-Basant, a herbal formulation that includes curcumin, amla, neem and aloe vera.
Myth - People at a younger age don’t get an HPV infection
Fact - People of all ages are prone to getting an HPV infection. Human beings could catch an infection as early as 13 years old. Youngsters could miss this point altogether as this is one of the myths about HPV virus disguised as a fact.
Myth - The only cause of HPV infection is sexual contact
Fact - Though the main cause of HPV infections is sexual contact, other factors may also contribute to the same. Genital skin contact is enough to cause an HPV infection.
Myth - Symptoms will occur from the beginning for an HPV infection
Fact - It will take at least two or three years before the initial symptoms of HPV will occur. In some cases, HPV symptoms won’t even occur among the affected.
Myth - Pregnancy is a huge risk for HPV-infected women
Fact - Pregnancy and HPV infection are not related in any way. Women who are infected with the HPV virus can get pregnant without any risk. But in case of diagnosis of critical symptoms like cervical cancer, pregnancy could possess a risk.
Myth - HPV vaccine administration causes an increase in sexual activity in teenagers
Fact - This is not at all true. Do not stay away from administering HPV vaccines citing trivial and false information like heightened sexual activity during your teen years.
Myth - There is no need for HPV tests among vaccinated personnel.
Fact - Irrespective of your HPV vaccination status, you must undergo regular tests at frequent intervals with the help of an expert professional. This is perhaps the most crucial to debunk, as HPV vaccine myths could slow down progress in the niche.
Myth - All HPV strains carry the same risk
Fact - Wrong. High-risk and low-risk HPV strains are present among the 100s of HPV types. The ones with more risk are HPV 16, 18, 45, etc., which are carriers of cervical cancer.
Myth - Pap tests are only for determining cervical cancer
Fact - Pap Smear tests are known for determining cervical cancer, but samples in this test are also suitable for learning about HPV infections in general.
Parting Thought
Debunking HPV myths is not sufficient when it comes to related infections. You should act on the facts learned and arrive at an effective solution with the help of active, existing remedies.