Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted disease. Many patients with an HPV infection show no signs or side effects of the disease, which leads to them unwittingly passing the virus along to sexual partners. This virus is particularly dangerous for women because it can lead to cancer.
Genital Warts
One of the more common side effects of a HPV infection, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, is the development of genital warts. Genital warts are small growths that can occur after infection with some strains of HPV. In women, these warts may appear in or around the vagina, as well as around the anus and on the cervix. Men are less likely to develop genital warts than women. When men do get them, the warts often appear on the tip of the penis. Genital warts can also form on the shaft of the penis, around the anus and on the scrotum.
Cervical Cancer
One of the more serious side effects of HPV is an increased risk of cervical cancer. Some strains of HPV, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, can lead to changes occurring in the cells of the cervix. Often these cellular changes go away over time, but sometimes the changes are permanent. In these cases, the abnormal cells may have an increased risk of developing into cervical cancer. These abnormal cells are often called precancerous cervical dysplasia.
Pregnancy Complications
Women with HPV have a risk of developing certain complications during pregnancy, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases explains. Genital warts sometimes expand during pregnancy, which can impede urination and can also cause obstruction of the vagina, making delivery more difficult. HPV can also infect the infant. This can lead to a condition known as respiratory papillomatosis, in which warts develop in the airway. In some cases these warts can impair breathing and require immediate medical treatment.
Laryngeal Papillomatosis
Another potential side effect of an HPV infection, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, can cause small growths to appear in the vocal cords, respiratory system and the larynx. These tumors can interfere with breathing, especially while the person is asleep, and eventually can cause significant obstruction of the respiratory passage.
