For women wanting to become pregnant, the health of the cervix is vital. Sperm travel by way of cervical mucus through the cervix, into the uterus to the fallopian tubes for conception. HPV itself does not directly affect fertility. However, HPV increases the risk of developing precancerous or cancerous cells, which could reduce the likelihood of conception or carrying a pregnancy to term.
Many young females have a normal pap test, but test positive for HPV. When the results show mild, changes of undetermined significance (ASCUS) or even low grade cervical abnormalities (LSIL), with no HPV present, or HPV with no cervical abnormalities, a wait and watch approach for a year is typically recommended. Retesting is done in a year. Waiting and watching may sound terrific for some, studies have shown that even mild abnormalities on Pap and HPV testing can be severely anxiety-provoking. It can interfere with a woman's quality of life. There is always something you can do to support your immunity and cervical health.
HPV and cervical changes can be messengers telling us that there is a disruption in the health of the vaginal microbiome, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Rather than simply waiting, watching, and retesting, a natural approach can be used to restore optimal health to the vaginal and cervical ecosystem that encourages the clearance of HPV and help reduce cervical cancer risk.
The root causes that can contribute to cervical cellular changes and susceptibility to HPV include a Western or nutrient depleted diet (the Standard American Diet), inflammation, impaired detoxification, and disrupted microbiome health.
Phytonutrient levels of folate, vitamin A, selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, have been found to be low in women with cervical cancer.
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress may result in higher concentrations of HPV at the cervix. Cigarette smokers have a significantly higher risk of cervical cancer. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress can cause cell damage and increase your risk of cancer.
Vaginal microbiome - lactobacillus is protective. Bacterial vaginosis (vaginal microbiome dysbiosis) is associated with reduced variety and amounts of lactobacillus species.
A comprehensive plan includes attention to your diet, sleep, stress management, gut health, and environmental exposures. A healthy cervix, a healthy biome for fertility.