Std Facts – Genital Warts

Genital warts is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papilloma virus. They are also referred to as venereal warts. They are different types of these including, vaginal, penis or anal warts. They are highly contagious through skin contact during sexual intercourse with an infected person. In addition, it is possible to have the virus for a long period without showing any symptoms. They occur in both females and males. In both sexes, it is known to cause cancer of the cervix, anus or penis.

Symptoms of genital warts usually appear after two or three months of exposure. A pap smear test can be carried out to diagnose the disease. It has been noted that, warm and moist environment in the genital area encourages the growth of warts. They usually begin as small microscopic flat bumps and usually spread into large masses or clusters in the affected area. Women get them inside and outside the vagina, on the cervix or around the anus. However, in men the symptoms are less noticeable. When they do appear, they are seen on the penis, shaft, scrotum and the anus.

Outbreaks are usually worse during pregnancy. They symptoms are bad for people with weak immune systems. In most cases, an infected person also suffers from other sexually transmitted diseases. Genital warts can be prevented by taking vaccination which protects against some virus strains. The vaccine is only effective, when taken before the onset of sexual activities. The vaccine is already widely used by young women. There is no cure for the virus, and warts can only be treated after they erupt. Some genital warts however disappear without treatment. Use of a condom is also important when having sexual intercourse with an infected partner.

Treatments help remove the warts but not the virus that causes them. This means that, they can recur after treatment. Treatment can be in the form of a solution in gel or cream form. This is used for application on the affected area. Some of these solutions can be washed off after some hours while others are not washed off. However, for large warts which do not respond to any other treatment, surgery can be used to remove them. Laser surgery is another mode of treatment used although it is too expensive. During pregnancy, it is advisable to consult a doctor before self medication. This is because some drugs could result in birth defects.

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