Genital warts are subjects spoken in hushed tones, or even more accurately, not spoken about at all unless a health professional mentions it. The warts are a manifestation of the sexually transmitted disease called human papilloma virus or HPV, which has been associated with several cervical cancer cases as well as other cancer types that concern the genital region. HPV is transmitted through sexual intercourse and requires direct skin contact in transmission, though not everyone who has the virus will see signs of genital warts.
To help protect you from sexually transmitted diseases such as genital warts, it helps to know your potential partner's sexual background. Aside from that, using a condom can give vital protection against HPV. The problem is, some people who have genital warts don't even know it and can unknowingly spread the virus to others, so it is imperative to know how to recognize signs of genital warts just in case the virus affects you.
Common Signs of Genital Warts
After exposure to HPV, it usually takes up to a month before signs of genital warts begin to show, and it can take longer sometimes. Most cases of genital warts do not involve pain, but the warts may itch especially when in contact with clothing. Genital warts do not differ much in appearance from warts on fingers and toes in that they look like a cauliflower and are rough. Aside from that, there have been cases where the warts were flat and some where they weren't easily seen and were only seen by a doctor.
Signs of genital warts in men may crop up on various areas of the genital region, from the urethra, the rectum, to the penis. In fact, the warts can appear under the penis' foreskin and even inside the urethra. As for women, signs of genital warts can affect various areas such as near the urethra or the rectum, inside the vagina, and even the vulva lips. Other signs of genital warts common to both men and women are discolouring, swelling, and bleeding or pain during sex.
Warts that are not seen can also be accompanied by itching, which is not an easily attributable sign because the warts can look like inoffensive bumps or rough patches on your skin. Thus, you should go to your doctor for a skin test to see if you have signs of genital warts.
How to Treat Genital Warts
Genital warts can be treated using a number of treatments, ranging from surgical treatments to topical medications, and even though these treatments don't usually get rid of the root virus, they can ease your genital warts problems. You should cooperate with your doctor on finding the best treatment option for you depending on the signs of genital warts you experience.
