Genital warts are one of the most common sexually-transmitted diseases and are highly contagious. Genital warts affect both men and women. Up to 30 percent of the time, they go away without treatment. Genital warts may or may not reappear after the first outbreak.
History
Genital warts, also known as venereal warts, are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which is also the cause of cervical and other types of genital cancers.
Symptoms
You may have genital warts if you have small, flat, flesh-colored bumps and are experiencing itching or discomfort in the genital area of your body. The lesions can be microscopic or may multiply into large clusters.
Diagnosis
Because genital warts are sometimes hard to detect, it is important for women to have regular pelvic exams and Pap tests.
Treatment
In some cases no treatment may be necessary. However, if you have persistent symptoms including pain, itching, burning or emotional distress, your doctor may prescribe a topical cream such as Imiquimod. HPV can not be eliminated, so warts may reappear after treatment.
Prevention/Solution
You should never have unprotected sex. Using a condom may prevent you from contracting HPV, the underlying cause of genital warts.
Warning
Mayoclinic.com warns that over-the-counter medications should not be used in an effort to make genital warts go away. Such medications are not intended for moist genital tissues.
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