Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide and in most cases, the body clears it on its own. But for some women, especially those with persistent high-risk HPV strains, clearance can be slow, emotionally draining, and anxiety-provoking. The good news? We now know a lot more about what helps and what doesn’t when it comes to naturally supporting HPV clearance.
This blog will walk you through the latest science on healing HPV, the importance of HPV subtyping, what the ASCCP guidelines mean for you, and when it’s time to consider surgical treatment. We also cover the differences between the original Gardasil vaccine and Gardasil 9, and how dietary and supplement strategies may help support your body’s immune defenses.
HPV includes over 100 strains, but only a handful are considered “high risk” for cervical cancer. Strains 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 are among the most concerning and this is where HPV genotyping (or subtyping) becomes important.
HPV subtyping tells us exactly which strain is present in your body. Unlike older screening tools that reported only “high risk” or “low risk,” newer tests like the BD Onclarity HPV Assay or, our preferred test, MDL HPV Type-Detect® 4.0 by Multiplex Real-Time PCR provide strain-specific information.
This matters because:
HPV 16, 31 and 18 (Risk Band 1 subtypes) are the most aggressive and associated with faster progression to high-grade lesions. HPV 31 is often left unidentified with standard HPV testing that only screens for 16 and 18.
Risk Band 2 types like HPV 33/58, 52, 45 also carry significant risk but may behave differently and less agressively than Risk Band 1 subtypes while the remaining 7 strains in Risk Band 3 are less common causes of high grade cervical disease and can often be managed with observation alone.
Knowing the exact strain allows for more personalized risk assessment and follow-up.
The Onclarity Trial, a large multi-center study, examined how HPV genotyping could guide cervical cancer screening and improve outcomes. Based on this data, ASCCP (American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology) is updating guidelines to reflect genotype-based management but they are not quite there yet.
Key shifts to include:
Longer screening intervals for women with negative HPV and cytology.
Shorter follow-up timelines for those with persistent high-risk strains like HPV 16/18/31 even if their Pap is normal.
More precision in deciding when to refer for colposcopy or biopsy by testing for all risk band subtypes not just 16/18.
This is a huge leap forward in tailoring care to you, rather than treating everyone with “abnormal results” the same way.
In most healthy individuals, HPV clears naturally within 6–24 months. But persistence is more likely in people with:
Nutrient deficiencies
High stress levels
Hormonal imbalances
Vaginal dysbiosis (imbalanced flora)
Chronic inflammation or immune dysfunction
Research shows that certain dietary and supplement protocols can support immune function and mucosal healing, increasing your chances of HPV clearance.
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound): A mushroom extract shown to clear persistent HPV in clinical trials by boosting NK cell activity.
DIM (Diindolylmethane): Found in cruciferous vegetables, supports estrogen detoxification and may reduce cervical inflammation.
Sulforaphane (from broccoli sprouts): Activates the Nrf2 pathway, promoting detoxification and antiviral defense.
NAC (N-acetylcysteine): A precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. It may help reduce viral load and support epithelial repair.
Vitamin D3, Zinc, Selenium, and Probiotics: All play key roles in immune modulation and cervical mucosal health.
Myrtle Oil DIY Suppositories: Used monthly, these herbal blends have been shown in studies to significantly enhance HPV clearance rates (92.6% vs. 62.6% in placebo). Studies suggest that myrtle oil may have properties that can be beneficial in treating cervicovaginal HPV infections, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Myrtle's potential effects against HPV include:
Antiviral action: Myrtle contains compounds with antiviral properties that may interfere with the HPV lifecycle, hindering its ability to replicate and spread.
Proapoptotic activity: It's believed that myrtle can induce apoptosis, a process of programmed cell death, in HPV-infected cells. This may help eliminate cells where the virus is active.
Antioxidant and Antimutagenic effects: Myrtle also exhibits antioxidant and antimutagenic activities, which could be beneficial in managing HPV infection and related cellular changes.
Important notes: While research on myrtle oil for HPV is ongoing, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss appropriate treatment options for HPV infections. Essential oils like myrtle should be used with caution and under professional guidance due to potential side effects like skin irritation. If you would like our simple DIY recipe for Myrtle OIl Suppositories, please contact us.
DeflaGyn Gel (Europe only - Not FDA approved): A vaginal gel containing silica, selenium, and citric acid. Clinical trials show it reduces HPV persistence and aids in cervical healing.
European vaginal gel with silica, selenium, and citric acid. Improves vaginal pH and mucosal healing. Used in trials for HPV and cervical dysplasia.
DeflaGyn's mechanism against HPV and cervical lesions:
DeflaGyn utilizes a combination of silicon dioxide (silica) and DEFLAMIN (a patented combination of sodium selenite and citric acid) to fight HPV and support the healing of cervical lesions.
Here's the three-step process:
Adsorption and binding: The silicon dioxide in the gel acts like a sponge, adsorbing and binding to pathogens like viruses (including HPV) from the cervical surface and vaginal secretions. This prevents them from spreading and infecting new cells.
Neutralization: The DEFLAMIN component, with its antioxidant properties, helps to neutralize the adsorbed pathogens, reducing their potential for harm.
Elimination: The adsorbed, bound, and neutralized pathogens are then eliminated with the excretion of the vaginal gel, In essence, DeflaGyn works by physically removing pathogens and creating a less favorable environment for HPV to thrive, thereby aiding the body's natural processes of healing and potentially clearing the infection. Studies have demonstrated that DeflaGyn helps in the regression of cervical lesions and in clearing high-risk HPV infections. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment for HPV infection and any associated cervical changes.
Always consult your provider before starting new supplements or treatments.
Original Gardasil (administered prior to May 1, 2017) protected against 4 HPV types: 6, 11 (which can cause genital warts), and 16, 18 (which can cause cancer).
Gardasil 9 expands protection against five more cancer-causing strains: notably HPV 31, a rop 3 concerning contributor to cancer, as well as subtypes 33, 45, 52, and 58.
Gardasil 9 is now the standard vaccine used in the U.S., ideally given before sexual debut, but may still have benefits through age 45 in reducing cervical and head & neck cancer risks.
If you’ve been diagnosed with CIN 2 or CIN 3 (moderate to severe dysplasia), your provider may recommend a minor outpatient surgery like a LEEP or cold knife cone biopsy. These procedures remove abnormal cells before they become cancerous. You may need this procedure if you are in a high risk group such as someone with chronic illness, autoimmunity, needing immunosuppressive medications, or can not make lifestyle changes that would improve health.
While many women want to avoid surgery, these treatments:
Are highly effective
Can prevent cervical cancer
Are safe and quick, often done in the office or outpatient surgery center
At Thrive, we believe in informed choice. If your provider recommends a procedure, it’s likely because natural strategies aren’t working quickly enough, the lesion is too risky to wait or your individual health circumstances may pose additional risk for cervical disease progression.
We’re here to support you! Not only in clearing HPV, but in reclaiming your peace of mind. Whether you choose a natural protocol, medical management, or both, we’re committed to empowering you with options, facts, and compassionate care.
If you'd like help with HPV testing, subtyping, understanding immune support protocols, or to discuss next steps for an abnormal Pap, we’re here for you! Write to us if you'd like an expanded protocol or the simple 3 ingredient Myrtle Oil Suppository recipe.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Cervical disease is a serious condition that can lead to cancer and it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Do your own research and consult with a qualified healthcare professional about your unique circumstances. Use supplements thoughtfully and at your own risk.
This website does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the website owner is not liable for any damages or losses resulting from the use of the information provided herein.
