HPV infection can occur in many ways. Often, the condition develops in the genital area (in both women and men). It sometimes does not make itself known and is asymptomatic until it spontaneously disappears.
Sometimes the latent phase lasts for years, and – in the case of oncogenic viruses – only neoplastic changes cause the first symptoms. The HPV virus in the vagina can be confused with a bacterial or fungal infection, so symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain in intimate areas should not be ignored.
Infection with the human papillomavirus may be asymptomatic, causing no visible changes in the form of warts in the carrier, the so-called genital warts in the intimate areas. However, this does not mean asymptomatic infected person does not transmit the virus to others. In most people, the body will fight the virus itself, but before it does – during this time the carrier may unknowingly infect their partners. The risk of HPV infection can be reduced by limiting the number of sexual partners and using protection in the form of a condom. However, it must be remembered that although a condom is a mechanical barrier against microorganisms, it does not protect us 100% against virus transmission but only reduces the risk of infection.
