Fifteen-year-old Dolores was embarrassed to talk with her mother about the pain she felt in her “private parts,” but she was worried she might have gotten a disease, despite Nick’s assurance that she was his “first.” Her mother insisted that Dolores see a doctor, who discovered cervical lesions caused by a virus associated with cancer.
- What sexually transmitted virus is involved?
- How should the physician treat the lesions?
- How could Dolores have protected herself?
need references please
Title: Understanding Teenage Sexual Health: A Case Study Analysis
Introduction: The case of fifteen-year-old Dolores highlights the complexities and challenges teenagers face in addressing sexual health concerns. Despite embarrassment and fear, seeking medical attention is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This essay explores the sexually transmitted virus involved in Dolores’s case, appropriate medical treatments for cervical lesions, and preventive measures to protect oneself.
Sexually Transmitted Virus Involved: The virus implicated in Dolores’s cervical lesions is likely human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally, affecting millions of individuals each year. It encompasses a diverse group of viruses, some of which can cause genital warts and others associated with cervical cancer. The high-risk strains of HPV, such as HPV types 16 and 18, are linked to cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer development.
Treatment of Cervical Lesions: The treatment for cervical lesions caused by HPV depends on various factors, including the severity of the lesions and the patient’s age. In Dolores’s case, where the lesions are associated with a virus linked to cancer, prompt intervention is essential. The physician may recommend several treatment options, including:
- Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the abnormal tissue using liquid nitrogen, causing it to slough off.
- Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP): LEEP involves removing abnormal cervical tissue using a wire loop heated by electrical current.
- Conization: Also known as cone biopsy, this procedure involves removing a cone-shaped section of abnormal tissue from the cervix for further examination.
- Topical Treatments: Certain medications, such as topical creams or solutions containing chemicals like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or podophyllin, may be applied directly to the lesions to destroy them.
These treatments aim to remove or destroy abnormal cervical cells, preventing the progression to cervical cancer. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments and screenings are crucial to monitor for any recurrence or new lesions.
Preventive Measures for Teenagers: Dolores’s situation underscores the importance of sexual health education and preventive measures for teenagers. While it’s challenging to eliminate all risks, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves:
- Vaccination: HPV vaccines, such as Gardasil and Cervarix, are highly effective in preventing infection with the most common high-risk HPV strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine HPV vaccination for adolescents aged 11-12 years, with catch-up vaccination through age 26 for those who haven’t been vaccinated previously.
- Safe Sex Practices: Consistent and correct use of condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission and other STIs. Educating teenagers about the importance of condom use during sexual activity is vital.
- Open Communication: Encouraging open and honest communication between teenagers and their parents or guardians fosters a supportive environment for discussing sexual health concerns. Teenagers should feel comfortable seeking guidance and medical attention when needed.
Conclusion: The case of Dolores illustrates the significance of early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections among teenagers. HPV, a prevalent STI, can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Prompt medical intervention, along with preventive measures such as vaccination and safe sex practices, can mitigate the risk of HPV transmission and associated health issues. Empowering teenagers with comprehensive sexual health education and fostering open communication channels are essential steps towards promoting their well-being and reducing the burden of STIs in society.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination: What Everyone Should Know. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine.html
- American Cancer Society. (2021). Treating Cervical Pre-Cancers. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/treating/pre-cancers.html
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2014). Comprehensive cervical cancer control: A guide to essential practice (2nd ed.). Retrieved from https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/144785/9789241548953_eng.pdf