Genital Warts

Overview

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They appear as small, flesh-colored bumps or have a cauliflower-like appearance in the moist tissues of the genital area. Genital warts can affect both men and women, and they can grow on the vulva, vagina, cervix, anal canal, penis, or scrotum. In many cases, genital warts are asymptomatic or cause only mild discomfort or itching. It is important to see a healthcare professional if you or your partner develop bumps or warts in the genital area.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of genital warts include small, flesh-colored, brown or pink swellings in the genital area, a cauliflower-like shape caused by several warts growing close together, itching or discomfort in the genital area, and bleeding during intercourse. Genital warts may also be invisible or flat. It is important to see a healthcare professional if you or your partner develops bumps or warts in the genital area.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing genital warts include:

1. Having unprotected sex with multiple partners
2. Having had another sexually transmitted infection
3. Having sex with a partner whose sexual history you don't know
4. Becoming sexually active at a young age
5. Having a compromised immune system, such as from HIV or drugs from an organ transplant In addition to these risk factors, the more sexual partners you have, the more likely you are to contract a genital HPV infection. Age is also a factor, as common warts occur mostly in children, while genital warts occur most often in adolescents and young adults. People with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of HPV infections, and areas of skin that have been punctured or opened are more prone to develop common warts. Personal contact, such as touching someone's warts or not wearing protection before contacting surfaces that have been exposed to HPV, may also increase your risk of HPV infection.

Development

Genital warts develop as a result of infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 40 strains of HPV that affect the genital area, and some of these strains can lead to the development of genital warts. The warts can appear on various parts of the genital area, including the vulva, walls of the vagina, anus, or cervix in women, and the penis, scrotum, or anus in men. Additionally, genital warts can develop in the mouth or throat when a person has oral sexual contact with an infected individual. The warts can range in appearance from small, flesh-colored bumps to clusters that resemble cauliflower. In some cases, they may be flat and invisible to the naked eye.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should see a healthcare professional if you or your partner develops bumps or warts in the genital area. Genital warts can be so small and flat as to be invisible, but they can also multiply into large clusters in someone with a suppressed immune system. It's important to get a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options to prevent the spread of the infection and potential complications.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Complications of genital warts can include the development of cancer. Certain types of HPV, which causes genital warts, are associated with cancers of the vulva, anus, penis, and mouth and throat. It is important for women to have regular Pap tests, particularly those who have been infected with higher risk types of HPV. HPV infection can also cause problems during pregnancy, such as enlarged warts making it difficult to urinate, or warts on the vaginal wall inhibiting the stretching of vaginal tissues during childbirth. In rare cases, a baby born to a mother with genital warts may develop warts in the throat, requiring surgery to keep the airway from being blocked.

Prevention

Genital warts are almost always spread through sexual contact, and there is no sure way to prevent infection with HPV, the virus that causes genital warts. However, you can reduce your risk of developing genital warts and other HPV-related genital lesions by:

1. Being in a mutually monogamous sexual relationship with someone who is not infected with HPV.
2. Reducing your number of sex partners.
3. Using a latex condom, which can reduce your risk of HPV transmission, although it may not fully protect against genital warts because some strains of HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Remember that genital warts don't have to be visible for you to spread the infection to your sexual partner. If you have genital warts, it is important to inform your partner(s) and refrain from sexual activities until you and your partners have received appropriate treatment.

Treatment

Treatments for genital warts may involve a combination of medical procedures and self-care methods. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment recommendations. Some treatment options for genital warts include:

1. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen. The dead tissue is then shed, allowing the new tissue to grow in its place.
2. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA): TCA is applied to the warts, causing them to gradually peel off. This treatment may need to be repeated a few times.
3. Imiquimod: This is a topical cream that enhances the immune system's ability to fight off the HPV virus. It may take several weeks for the warts to disappear.
4. Podophyllotoxin: This is a medication that is applied to the warts, causing them to blister and eventually peel off.
5. Surgical removal: In some cases, surgical removal of the warts may be necessary. This can be done through procedures such as cauterization, laser therapy, or excision.
6. Self-care methods: Over-the-counter wart treatments containing salicylic acid can help remove genital warts. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using these products on genital areas. It's important to remember that even after treatment, genital warts can take several weeks or months to fully disappear. It's also crucial to practice safe sex and use protection to prevent the spread of HPV to others. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on the treatment of genital warts.

Preparing for medical consultation

Preparing for an appointment to address genital warts involves taking similar steps as for other sexual health concerns. Here's what you can do to get ready:

1. Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: Ask your healthcare provider if there are any specific instructions you should follow before your appointment, such as avoiding sex or using certain products.
2. Gather your medical history and symptoms: List any symptoms you've experienced, their duration, and any other relevant medical information.
3. Mention all medications and supplements: Create a list of all the medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking.
4. Prepare questions for your healthcare provider: Compile a list of questions to ask during your appointment, including queries about the diagnosis, treatment options, potential side effects, and any necessary lifestyle changes.
5. Avoid irritants before your appointment: Refrain from using any products that could irritate the genital area (e.g., scented soaps, douches, or vaginal sprays) for at least 24 hours before your appointment.
6. Schedule your appointment strategically: Try to book your appointment when you're not menstruating, as this may help your healthcare provider better see and assess any potential symptoms or conditions. Remember to be honest with your healthcare provider about your sexual experiences and any concerns you have. Their priority is to provide you with the appropriate care and help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.