While there are no treatments for a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, the virus goes away on its own for most people. Certain types of HPV and can cause cervical cancer or abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix that sometimes turn into cancer. Other types can cause genital warts and benign (abnormal, but noncancerous) changes in the cervix. The earlier these conditions are detected, the greater likelihood they can be successfully treated. Now that you know…tell someone.
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer can be treated in several ways. No matter which treatment is selected, the chances for recovery are better when the cancer is found early. It's important to remember that everyone is unique and responds to treatment differently. What's right for one person may not be right for someone else. If you do need one of these treatments, your doctor will review all of the risks and side effects as well as the benefits.
If the abnormal cervical cell changes are mild, your doctor may simply choose to closely monitor them because they could go away on their own. If they are more severe, you may take comfort in knowing that removing the abnormal cells can almost always prevent cervical cancer from developing in the future.
Depending on the size and location of the genital warts, there are several treatment options to choose from:
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Creams
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Removal by burning, freezing, or laser
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Surgery
It's also important to know that there's a chance that genital warts can reappear after treatment, because HPV may still be present. If that happens, the treatment may need to be repeated.
