Causes of HPV infection: 7 critical things every woman in her 20s must know

Symptoms of HPV infection: Most young women remain unaware of their HPV infection since the virus, in the initial stages, generally does not cause any pain or abnormal discharge, or discomfort (Image: Canva)

• HPV infections are rising among women under 30, often without symptoms
• Early sexual activity, low screening, and poor vaccine uptake drive the surge
• Timely vaccination and regular screening can help protect reproductive health

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One of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection worldwide is Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and it remains largely asymptomatic. In the past few years, gynaecologists have reported a marked rise in HPV-related diseases in women under 30. This silent surge is due to increased early sexual activity, limited routine screening, low levels of awareness and misinformation about vaccination.

“This is why it is crucial for young women to be aware of how HPV spreads, its health risks and the need for prevention, screening and timely vaccination in order to protect their reproductive health and overall wellbeing,” Dr Keerti Khetan, Director of the Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi, tells Moneycontrol.

Causes of HPV infections

The expert explains what every young woman must know to stay healthy

Also read | Cervical cancer cases are rising despite available treatments, gynecologist explains why

1. Most HPV infections do not have symptoms

The problem is that HPV is an infection, and a sneaky one. Most young women remain unaware of their infection since the virus, in the initial stages, generally does not cause any pain or abnormal discharge, or discomfort. These facts explain the late diagnosis and treatment; meanwhile, the virus advances silently.

2. Habits and lifestyles regarding sexual health

Several factors of modern life are to blame for the heightened exposure to HPV in women under 30 years. These include early commencement of sexual activities, inconsistency in the use of condoms, multiple sexual partners, and absence of regular gynaecological check-ups. Note that it is enough to have just one single unsafe sexual contact for transmission of the virus.

3. Rise in cervix pre-cancers in younger women

Physicians are diagnosing atypical changes of the cervix — called CIN, or Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia — in younger women. These are pre-cancerous changes that typically do not show any symptoms but have the potential to develop into cervical cancer if left untreated.

Also read | 5 facts about cervical cancer screening you probably did not know

4. HPV has a link beyond the cervix

The health risks of HPV infection go beyond the cervix. Today it’s associated with a host of serious health issues:

Vaginal and vulvar lesions

Bleeding abnormality

Persistent genital warts

Increased risk of infertility from chronic inflammation.

5. Ignorance towards treatment

The culture of silence around sexual health is a huge obstacle. Embarrassment, lack of knowledge or stigma generally prevent young women from going through these very crucial visits to a gynaecologist. This missed opportunity lets HPV-related diseases advance and become worse.

6. Vaccination rates remain quite low

Although vaccines for HPV are proved to be safe, highly efficacious and recommended in individuals from 9 to 26 years of age, the uptake rates by young women have not been satisfactory throughout India. Vaccination is, therefore, a powerful weapon with which to prevent almost 90 percent of high-risk human papillomavirus infection.

7. Reproductive health protection in easy steps

There are clear steps young women can take to protect themselves.

Get Vaccinated Early: HPV Vaccine prioritisation is necessary

Understand screening guidelines: Before age 21: Routine Pap smear screening is not generally recommended

Age 21–29: You should get a Pap test every 3 years

After age 29: You should have a Pap test along with an HPV test called co-testing

Practice safer sex: Use the consistent use of condoms to reduce the transmission rate

Do not smoke: Tobacco smoking is known to extend the persistence of HPV infections in the body

Seek help if there is any kind of bleeding or lesions that are unusual

As some HPV-related complications may be on the rise, young women can still protect their reproductive health from long-term damage through timely screening and vaccination and increased personal awareness.

FAQs on HPV Infection in Young Women

1. What is HPV and how does it spread?

HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that often goes unnoticed due to a lack of symptoms. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.

2. What are the risk factors for HPV in young women?

Risk factors include early sexual activity, inconsistent condom use, multiple sexual partners, and infrequent gynaecological check-ups.

3. How can HPV affect a woman's health?

HPV can lead to cervical pre-cancers, vaginal and vulvar lesions, abnormal bleeding, persistent genital warts, and increased risk of infertility due to chronic inflammation.

4. Why is early vaccination important for HPV?

Early vaccination is crucial as it can prevent up to 90% of high-risk HPV infections, significantly reducing the chance of developing HPV-related diseases.

5. What preventive measures can young women take against HPV?

Young women should get vaccinated early, follow recommended screening guidelines, practise safer sex, avoid smoking, and seek medical help for any unusual bleeding or lesions.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.