Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that affects millions of people globally and is considered the most common sexually transmitted infection. Over 100 types of HPV exist, with some causing warts on various body parts, including the hands and feet. Other types, specifically about 30, can affect the genital areas. Most sexually active individuals will contract HPV, often without realizing it because many infections do not cause symptoms and clear on their own.
The Direct Link: HPV and Your Period
HPV does not directly cause a period to stop or significantly alter a menstrual cycle. The virus primarily affects the skin and mucous membranes, leading to cellular changes in areas like the cervix. The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, and HPV infection does not interfere with this hormonal regulation.
While HPV itself does not impact the timing or flow of menstruation, some changes in bleeding patterns could potentially occur if an HPV infection progresses to advanced cervical cancer. However, this is a consequence of the cancer, not the HPV infection directly, and such changes would typically include bleeding between periods, after menopause, or unusually heavy periods.
How HPV Impacts Health
While HPV does not affect menstrual cycles, it can have other health impacts. Certain types of HPV, categorized as low-risk, can cause genital warts. These are small, painless growths that may appear on or around the genitals or anus. These types generally do not lead to cancer.
High-risk HPV types are a different concern because they can lead to cellular changes in the cervix, known as dysplasia, which can progress to cervical cancer if left untreated. HPV is responsible for almost all cervical cancers, with types 16 and 18 accounting for a significant majority of cases. Additionally, high-risk HPV can cause less common cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and certain areas of the head and neck, including the throat and tonsils.
Other Reasons for Menstrual Changes
Since HPV does not cause menstrual irregularities, it is helpful to be aware of other common factors that can lead to changes in a period. Pregnancy is a primary reason for a missed period. Significant stress can also affect the regularity of the menstrual cycle.
Changes in body weight, whether gaining or losing a substantial amount, or engaging in excessive exercise, can impact menstrual patterns. Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, are also frequent causes of irregular periods. Certain medications, including hormonal birth control, or conditions like perimenopause (the transition leading to menopause), can also lead to variations in menstrual bleeding.
Next Steps: When to Consult a Doctor
If you experience unexplained changes in your menstrual cycle, consult a healthcare professional. This includes periods that become very irregular after previously being regular, bleeding between periods, or unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding. A doctor can help determine the underlying cause of menstrual irregularities and recommend appropriate management.
Regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, are crucial for managing HPV and detecting any cellular changes in the cervix early. Pap tests look for abnormal cervical cells, while HPV tests specifically check for high-risk HPV types that can cause these changes. If you have received an HPV diagnosis or have concerns about potential symptoms, discussing these with a doctor can ensure timely and appropriate care.