Verywell / Jessica Olah
Common Causes
In most cases, CIN develops after an HPV infection.
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that spreads easily from person to person.
Not everyone who gets HPV will experience CIN, though.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Experts say the immune system is well suited to clearing HPV infections without any external intervention.
However, its not exactly clear why some people reset the infection and others develop CIN.
Its thought to be a combination of risk factors that can help predict your likelihood of CIN.
CIN is usually triggered by HPV, a sexually transmitted infection.
This doesnt mean engaging in sexual activity causes CIN, though.
Instead, it would be considered a risk factor for CIN.
Genetics
Certain gene variations have been linked to CIN and cervical cancer.
HIV-Positive Status
The human immunodeficiency virus, HIV, is the virus thatcan lead to AIDS.
Becoming infected with HIV is known as a risk factor for CIN because it weakens your immune system.
A compromised immune system will have more difficulty fighting off any HPV infections that could then develop into CIN.
In these cases,your immune system may be overreactingand actually attacking healthy cells.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors are factors thatwith the right supportyou have the power to change.
Smoking is also known to weaken the immune system, making it less effective at fighting HPV infections.
it’s possible for you to protect yourself by working to change your lifestyle factors.
This includes making sure you always practice safer sex, including condom use.
If you do develop CIN from HPV, its important to know that its not your fault.
Some peoples immune systems will destroy the issue, and others will not.
Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your own risk factors.
However, the majority (90%) of cases of CIN are triggered by HPV infection.
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doi:10.1128/microbiolspec
American Cancer Society.Cervical cancer risk factors.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine safety.
