An Introduction to Genital Warts

One of the most commonly transmitted of all sexual-related diseases are genital warts – also known as 'condylomata acuminata' or venereal warts. Attacking the moist tissues in the genital region, this type of wart produces small bumps that often resemble a cauliflower-like appearance. While some warts are small in size – measuring one millimeter in diameter – it is not uncommon to encounter large clusters of genital warts.

Women with genital warts will find growths on their vulva, cervix, the walls of the vagina, and the region located between the anus and external genitalia. Men develop genital warts less often than women, discovering an outbreak on the scrotum, anus, as well as on the tip (or shaft) of the penis. In both sexes, genital warts can infiltrate the mouth or throat of an individual who has participated in oral sexual contact with an infected partner.

Understand the Causes

A virus is the cause behind genital warts and despite a wide-range of available treatments; this is a condition one should not ignore. The human papillomavirus (HPV), which produces this serious health concern – has been linked to cervical cancer and other kinds of genital conditions, including cancer of the penis. HPV infects the top layers of the skin with more than 100 different types of the virus in existence. Only a few strains of the virus actually lead to genital warts.

The virus is extremely contagious, spreading from one infected person to their partners through sexual contact. Around 2/3 of people who have sexual contact with an individual with genital warts will develop the same condition. Over the course of three months after contact, symptoms usually appear. In some cases, one may not notice any signs for years.

One of the most significant risk factors associated with genital warts is participating in unprotected sex and with multiple partners. Battling a different sexually transmitted disease, having sex with a person whose sexual past is unknown to you, and engaging in sexual contact at a young age, will also increase the risk of developing genital warts.

Signs and Symptoms

When it comes to the signs and symptoms of genital warts, it is important to take note that not everyone will exhibit symptoms. Sometimes, the signs for an infection are there, yet the lesions are too small or flat for the naked eye to detect. However, common indications of genital warts include bleeding during intercourse, itching or discomfort in the genital region, small, flesh-colored or gray swellings located about the genitals, and/or a cluster of warts that form the shape of a cauliflower.

Treatment Options

Once a doctor has diagnosed genital warts, an array of topical medications and surgical procedures become possible treatment options. Your physician may prescribe Aldara (a cream that enhances the immune system to fight against genital warts), Condylox (which works to destroy genital wart tissue), or TCA – an acid that literally burns away genital warts. In some cases, surgery is necessary for the removal of larger or stubborn growths. With this approach, a doctor may freeze, burn off, or use specialized tools to cut away the warts.

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