Genital warts are caused by certain types of HPV (human papillomavirus). Some strains of HPV can cause cancer and why it is of utmost importance to receive a preventative vaccine before you have sexual relationships to help protect you.
How Do I Get Genital Warts?
You cannot get genital warts from touching yourself or your partner with a wart on your hand. This condition is caused by direct contact (skin-to-skin) with an infected person. This occurs during sexual activity, including oral, anal, or vaginal sex. Penetration is not required to spread the condition.
Identifying Genital Warts
Genital warts can form on skin around the anus and genitals. They appear as bumps that are either white or flesh colored. They are usually soft and can be flat or raised in shape. They are more likely to show up in moist areas. Some may be itchy, but usually, they cause no pain. Some patients have the virus but never experience any symptoms.
It’s important to remember that genital warts can appear long after you contract the virus, even as long as months or years later. That can make it harder to know when you are infected or who caused the infection. If you are sexually active, it is important to use protection and have annual exams with your gynecologist.
Genital Wart Treatments
If you suspect that you have genital warts, you should visit a gynecologist to confirm the diagnosis. They will give you an examination to diagnose and provide treatment options. Treatment is also vital to lower the chances of passing HPV to someone else.
Please call and make an appointment today with a Women’s Health and Menopause Center OB-GYN.
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