Genital warts are bumpssmall growing around the genital area and anal. This disease can be experienced by anyone who is sexually active. Genital warts are different from warts that grow on other parts of the body, because these conditions include sexually transmitted infections.
Genital warts are small and not easily visible to the naked eye. However, genital warts cause itching, a burning sensation, and pain and bleeding during sex. Sometimes, genital warts can also appear as lumps on the vagina or penis.
Causes of Genital Warts
Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). The spread of genital warts occurs through sexual intercourse, either through the vagina, or orally or anal. In addition, the virus can also be transmitted when the hands of people with genital warts touch their own genitals, then touch the genitals of their partners.
The spread of genital warts can also occur, as a result of sharing the use of sex aids (sex toys). In rare cases, genital warts can be transmitted to the baby, from a mother who is infected with the virus. Please note, genital warts are not transmitted through kissing, or certain media such as cutlery, towels, and toilet seats.
Genital Warts Diagnosis
Doctors can diagnose patients by seeing or hearing about the patient's symptoms. If the genital warts are not visible, the doctor may ask the patient to undergo tests such as:
- PAP smear
- Colposcopy
- HPV-DNA test
Genital Warts Treatment
Genital warts do not need to be treated if they do not cause bothersome symptoms. If genital warts cause symptoms, doctors can treat them with medicines that contain trichloroacetic acid. Doctors can also treat patients with surgical procedures such as:
- Excision
- Electrocautery
- Cryotherapy
- Laser surgery
Complications of Genital Warts
There are several complications that can be caused by genital warts, including:
- Trigger the occurrence of cancer in the pubic area, mouth and throat. One example is cervical cancer.
- Disorders during pregnancy.
- Babies born to mothers with genital warts are at risk of developing warts in the throat.
Genital Warts Prevention
Genital warts can be prevented in a number of ways, such as:
- Not having free sex.
- Use a condom every time you have sex.
- Do not share sex aids.
- Get the HPV immunization or cervical cancer vaccine.