A mother of any child wants two basic things for her children – a good education and great health. As a daughter, I have seen my mother laying huge emphasis on these. There have been times when it was difficult to understand why she was a bit pushy when it came to studies and health but becoming a mother myself has kind of answered all those questions.
In these changing times, what we can offer our children is the right direction for a good life and protect them to the best of our ability. The healthcare scene is changing because of changing lifestyles. We can’t foresee what’s going to happen when it comes to our health however, what’s in our hands is taking steps toward a healthy lifestyle and following preventive measures wherever possible.
As soon as the child is born, the list of preventive measures with respect to vaccines begins. Timing is crucial when it comes to preventive measures. Similarly, when your child is on the verge of stepping into adulthood, health will still be the priority.
Lately, I have been reading about some statistics that need our attention.
- Every 5 minutes, nearly 1 individual in India loses their life to HPV-related cancers.
Moreover, HPV or the Human Papillomavirus is the most commonly transmitted viral infection of the reproductive tract.
I am sure reading such facts and figures is every parent’s nightmare, especially when we read about cancer. We need to take the right steps for a better future for our children – educate them about the prevention of HPV.
When is the right time to communicate with our children about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
Sex education is part of our education curriculum, and it is vital that we as parents educate our children about it at the right time.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are those infections that spread through sex (vaginal, oral or anal). They can also spread through close contact with genitals or body fluids. Talking about sex is not limited to a certain age, as a parent, one needs to build upon it as the child grows. Once the child steps into their teens, they are pretty much aware of what is sex, and they are more prepared to understand what are STIs.
When it comes to STIs there are Chlamydia infections, Genital Herpes, Gonorrhea, HIV, Syphilis, and HPV, which are very common.
Did you know, HPV is the cause of almost all cases of cervical cancer?
And that is why we all must know about the prevention of HPV because it’s better to be safe.
What are the commonly associated diseases with Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?
Cervical, Vulvar, Vaginal cancers and genital warts are commonly associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
→ Cervical Cancer
Most HPV infections clear off on their own however, they may cause abnormal growth in the cervix region which, if left untreated, can cause cervical cancer. Initially, there may or may not be any symptoms. In an advanced stage, there could be symptoms like vaginal bleeding between periods, after intercourse or menopause, pelvic pain or pain during intercourse or watery bloody vaginal discharge that may have a foul odour or may be heavy.
→ Genital Warts
Genital warts can occur anywhere in the body. Some strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) cause genital warts. These are small flesh-coloured brown or pink swellings in or near the genital area. Other symptoms include itching or bleeding during intercourse.
Right Way to the prevention of HPV – Human Papillomavirus
Although most of the infection caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) goes on their own, we shouldn’t take risks when it comes to cancer. Unwanted trauma and the cost of treatment for cancer make vaccination even more vital when it comes to Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
A combination of safe sexual practices like using condoms and dental dams, vaccination, and frequent screening, can provide the greatest immunity against cancer. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is available. However, to understand who should get vaccinated, when, and the dosage, it would be advisable to consult a doctor.
Educating your children about the right choices and the right way of preventing HPV goes a long way in safeguarding their health.
You can read more about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and connect with an expert at https://letsfighthpv.com/
Issued in public interest with MSD India.
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It is important that children get the HPV vaccine on time. As a parent I am always concerned about the different types of viruses and HPV is such a virus that parents are hesitant to discuss with their children openly. You have explained it really well. It will help a lot of parents.