Genital Warts
Programs for the prevention and management of genital warts are designed to reduce the risk of infection and associated complications. These plans are tailored to each individual’s sexual health profile, promoting overall well-being and peace of mind while ensuring patient safety and proper medical guidance.
🩺 What Are Genital Warts?
Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) strains that lead to warts on the genital area, groin, or around the anus.
The warts appear as rough, flesh-colored or pink growths, resembling a rooster’s comb or cauliflower. Some individuals may experience itching, burning, or discharge, while others may have no symptoms at all.
The virus thrives in moist areas, and even after the warts are removed, HPV can remain dormant in the body for life. However, HPV vaccination can help prevent infection.
What Causes Genital Warts?
The primary cause is infection with HPV strains 6 and 11, which lead to warts on the skin and mucous membranes. These strains do not directly cause cancer. However, if a high-risk HPV strain is also present, it may increase the risk of cervical cancer or anal cancer.
How Is It Transmitted?
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Transmission usually occurs through direct skin-to-skin or mucous membrane contact with an infected person. Infection can occur even without fluid exchange, such as through:
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Sexual activity of any kind (vaginal, anal, or oral)
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Direct contact with infected skin
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Sharing personal items, such as towels or razors
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Oral sex (both giving and receiving) with an infected partner
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Natural childbirth from a mother with genital warts
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In some cases, individuals with weakened immunity—for example, poorly controlled diabetes or those taking immunosuppressive medications—are more susceptible to infection and may develop symptoms more easily.
What Are the Symptoms of Genital Warts?
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Small bumps or flesh-colored growths protruding from the skin, resembling cauliflower
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May appear as a single wart or multiple warts clustered together
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Color can be flesh-toned, pink, or red
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Some individuals may experience itching, burning, pain, or bleeding during sexual activity
Common Locations:
Genital areas in both males and females, Cervix, Urethra, Around the anus, Perineum and groin and Occasionally in the oral cavity due to oral sexual activity
Treatment for Genital Warts
Physicians select the most appropriate treatment based on each individual case. Common methods include:
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Topical Medication
Typically applied at the clinic every 1–2 weeks, such as TCA acid application to remove wart tissue. In some cases, topical immune-modulating medications may be used to inhibit wart cell replication.
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Electrocautery
Used for larger warts or those unresponsive to topical treatments. This involves applying high heat to destroy abnormal tissue.
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Surgical Excision
Recommended for very large warts or when malignancy is suspected. The removed tissue may be sent for pathological examination.
Can Genital Warts Recur?
There is a high chance of recurrence, approximately 70% within the first 6 months after treatment. This is because the virus may remain dormant in the body or a new infection may be acquired from a sexual partner.
Therefore, in addition to treatment, physicians recommend:
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Regular follow-up examinations
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Maintaining a healthy immune system
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Avoiding high-risk behaviors
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Considering HPV vaccination to prevent recurrence and infection with other HPV strains
Summary
Genital warts are a treatable condition, so there is no need to worry excessively. The most important step is to consult a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Leaving warts untreated can not only cause them to grow larger but also increase the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
💬 If you suspect that you or your partner may have symptoms of genital warts, do not feel embarrassed or afraid. Early consultation with a physician allows for timely treatment, faster recovery, reduced risk of recurrence, and better overall sexual health confidence. 😊