Genital warts are a sexually transmitted condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV exists in more than 70 different types, some of which cause these warts. In appearance, genital warts are often very tiny and may not even be visible to the afflicted individual. Other times, they are noticeable flesh-colored bumps on the genitals or anus and/or surrounding skin. They occasionally appear in masses, causing a growth resembling a cauliflower.
Causes
Genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus. Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease, meaning it is contracted through vaginal, anal or even oral sex. HPV infection can result in abnormal cell growth in the area of the genitals as well as the cervix in women. If untreated, the growth on the genitals or cervix can become cancerous and even result in death.
Symptoms
Many people experience no symptoms when suffering from an HPV infection. If there are symptoms, the most easily recognizable is the presence of soft warts in the genital area. In women, the warts can be seen on the inside or outside of the vagina or anus. In men, warts are often present near the tip of the penis, on the penile shaft, the scrotum or around the anus. Other possible symptoms in women include vaginal bleeding itching, elevated levels of discharge or moisture in the vagina. Men often experience itching of the penis or scrotum. Both men and women often experience anal itching if the infection is present in that area. Though very rare, it is often possible for both men and women to develop these warts in the mouth or throat as a result of having oral sex with someone suffering from an HPV infection.
It should be noted that there is a latency period after infection that can last from months to years. During this time the infected person is unlikely to know he has the condition as he is asymptomatic. Genital warts are often spread by individuals ignorant of their own infection.
Diagnosis
Genital warts need to be definitively diagnosed by a physician. The doctor may be able to determine the present of warts by a visual exam of the genitals but she may need to do a full pelvic examination of a female patient to detect warts present on the walls of the vagina and/or the cervix. Often a pap smear will be performed to test for changes that often occur after HPV infection.
In men, physicians need to differentiate genital warts from another condition called hirsuties papillaris, which is a benign condition which is not spread and does not require treatment. Another benign condition which may resemble genital warts in males is Fordyce's spots, which should be ruled out by the acting physician. The doctor must also eliminate the possibility of the condition being molluscum contagiosum (MC), which is sometimes sexually transmitted but does not have the internal presence of viral genital warts.
Treatment
A physician must determine the course of treatment for an individual case of genital warts. Treatments include topical medications, cauterization (burning), laser therapy or surgery. A topical skin treatment may be performed in the doctor's office or a prescription may be given for home treatment.
With proper treatment, genital wart outbreaks of usually can be controlled. However, the warts frequently reappear after treatment. Even after you have been treated for HPV, you may still infect others. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the warts, or laser therapy must be performed by a physician. One surgical method is loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), which involves a precise loop-shaped instrument that cuts away the warts.
Follow up examinations by the physician are essential. Genital warts are known to have a high return rate due to the fact that the virus causing them remains in the body after treatment. There is no known cure for HPV itself. Your doctor will advise as to how often follow-up examinations should be performed.
Prevention
The only sure way of preventing genital warts is complete sexual abstinence. However, persons in long-running monogamous relationships significantly reduce their chances of developing the disease. The use of condoms is also helpful in diminishing the spread of the virus that causes genital warts.
A vaccine named Gardasil is effective in preventing infection from four different strains of the HPV virus (ones that are responsible for most of the genital warts that cause cervical cancer). The vaccine is recommended for females between the ages of 9 and 26. It involves a series of three injections. Ideally the vaccines are provided before the person becomes sexually active.
Warnings
It is often impossible to tell whether your sexual partner has genital warts as the person may be asymptomatic and not know the disease is present. See a physician if you suspect infection; if you do have genital warts, you need to alert your sexual partners. Women should have annual pap smears.
Left untreated the warts can spread and become serious and possibly even cancerous.
Never use home remedies or drugstore products intended for other types of warts. These treatments will be ineffective and can cause soreness of the genitals.
Sexual abuse should be suspected if a child develops genital warts. An investigation should be performed.
Considerations
Several behaviors put you at high risk for contracting genital warts. These include becoming sexually active at an early age, having sexual relations with multiple partners, using tobacco and alcohol, and suffering from other viruses including herpes or being under an unusual amount of stress.
HPV is rampant among sexually active teenagers. Parents should have their teens screened for the infection.
Remember there is often a long incubation period for developing genital warts. You may not develop the warts until years after contracting HPV from an infected partner. Have annual physical exams and see a doctor anytime you experience itching or any change in your genitals.
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