Genital warts, which are common and unsightly condition, are just one of several permanent sexually transmitted diseases. However, if a person is tested and found to have genital warts, there are treatments that will keep the disease under control and prevent visible breakouts. Those who do undergo these treatments should always take care to be safe when having sex, as the condition may be passed on to their partner if proper precautions are not taken.
Cause
Genital warts are caused by HPV, the human papillomavirus. A distinction should be made that when a person has HPV that the condition is a permanent sexually transmitted disease. Genital warts could be viewed as a type of "side effect," a condition that is caused by a person having HPV. While the warts are treatable, the HPV is not.
Treatments
Several treatments may be used to eliminate genital warts, including topical medications, laser removal, surgery and freezing. Topical medicines, whether applied by patient or doctor, are often the first approach to treating genital warts. Laser removal is a relatively new procedure. The lasers are used to break up warts, not cut them, so that the body may dispose of them naturally. Surgical procedures may vary, but they usually involve cutting the warts off the patient. Freezing the warts off usually requires special chemicals and may damage skin around the warts as they are killed.
Factors
Which treatment is used depends on a great deal of factors. The more warts a person has, the larger they are and where they are located can all be factors that affect treatment. Laser surgery may not be an option, nor will freezing, if the warts are too large or in a poor location. Large numbers of warts may also defeat laser, freezing, and surgical procedures. Other factors include what the patient can afford, and whether they have any poor reactions to the treatments (such as allergic reaction to topical creams, lasers or freezing). Patients who need genital warts treatment should consult with their doctor before taking further steps.
Side Effects
Side effects of genital warts treatments can vary by patient. Often though there is scarring, the degree of which depends on the size and placement of the warts. Scarring is common with lasers, freezing, surgery, and with acidic, topical creams. Additionally, regardless of the treatment, anywhere from 20 to 50 percent of those who suffer with genital warts will experience them again once the warts have been removed.
Genital Warts Cycle
Often, genital warts may appear and vanish on their own without any treatment at all. This is referred to as the cycle of genital warts, and it is part of the condition caused by HPV. However, if not treated genital warts might also increase in size and number rather than go away. It is best to consult a doctor as to what treatment is best for each individual's treatment.
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