Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. These warts, which occur as a result of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, develop in the genital area of both men and women. Although they are usually harmless, they can be disturbing both aesthetically and health-wise and it is important to treat them.
What are Genital Warts?
Genital warts are small, flesh-like growths caused by certain types of HPV. These warts can appear in areas transmitted through sexual contact, such as the genitals, around the anus, or in the mouth. Genital warts usually appear as one or more small, soft, skin-colored bumps and can range from the size of a pinhead to several centimeters in size.
Causes of HPV and Genital Warts
Genital warts are caused by the HPV virus. HPV is a virus with hundreds of different types and is sexually transmitted. However, not all types of HPV cause genital warts; Genital warts are usually caused by the HPV-6 and HPV-11 virus types. While these types do not pose a risk of cancer, some other HPV types (such as HPV-16 and HPV-18) can lead to serious diseases such as cervical cancer.
HPV infection is quite common and most people will encounter the virus at some point in their lives. The virus is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and penetrative sexual intercourse is not required for the infection to be transmitted; skin-to-skin contact is also sufficient.
Symptoms of Genital Warts
Genital warts, although visible in appearance, may not always be noticeable. It can take weeks, months or even years for warts to appear after the virus is transmitted. Some people may not develop warts at all despite being infected. Common symptoms of genital warts include:
Small Skin Bumps: Warts start as small flesh-colored, pink or red bumps. They may be clustered together in the genital area or may be isolated.
Itching and Discomfort: Warts are usually painless, but they can cause itching or discomfort.
Bleeding: Warts can bleed, especially if irritated during sexual intercourse.
Swelling in the Genital Area: Sometimes warts can cause a feeling of swelling or fullness in the genital area.
Ways to Protect Yourself from Genital Warts
Although protection is not completely possible because HPV is a common virus and is transmitted through skin contact, some precautions can be taken to reduce the risk:
HPV Vaccine: The HPV vaccine is an effective method of protection against genital warts and HPV-related cancers. The vaccine provides immunity against the types of HPV that cause warts and cancer.
Condom Use: Condom use can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, but it does not completely prevent it, because the virus can also spread to areas of the skin not covered by a condom.
Limiting the Number of Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners reduces the risk of HPV transmission.
Genital Wart Treatment
Genital warts can be treated, but the HPV virus cannot be completely eliminated from the body; therefore, warts can reoccur even if treated. Treatment may vary depending on the size, number and location of the warts. Common treatment methods include:
Topical Medications: Doctors may prescribe creams or solutions that can be applied to the warts. These medications usually destroy the virus cells and cause the wart to shrink.
Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment): In this method, the warts are destroyed by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. This is a fast and effective treatment option, but may require more than one session.
Laser Treatment: The wart tissue can be burned off with a laser. This method can be used for larger warts or warts that do not respond to other treatments.
Surgery: Surgical cutting or removal of the warts may be preferred, especially for large or widespread warts.
Genital warts are a common symptom of HPV infection and one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. It is possible to reduce the risk with protection and vaccinations, but even if the infection is present, warts can be controlled with treatment. It is important to see a health care professional when you notice wart symptoms, both for individual health and to prevent the spread of the virus.