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Genital Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus
(HPV), of which there are 60 kinds, most causing common skin warts.
40 million men and women are now infected with genital warts.
Common Symptoms
Small, bumpy warts on and around the genitals, the anus, and (rarely)
the throat. Itching and burning on the genitals or anus.
Symptoms usually occur between two to three weeks after transmission,
if at all. They appear as little, painless hard spots or "flaky
lesions", although they are often too small to see. The warts may
come and go periodically, although the infection can be transmitted
regardless of the presence of symptoms. People with genital warts should
avoid touching the warts, since this may spread the disease to other
people through touch. To minimize risk of transmission, always wash
your hands with soap and water after touching your own warts.
How Is It Transmitted?
Oral, vaginal, or anal sex with someone with genital warts.
Prevention
Warts can be prevented with condoms, though sometimes an infected area
will not be adequately covered and should be avoided to prevent infection.
Testing
To test for genital warts, a biopsy is done on tissues that appear abnormal.
HPV can also be detected through Pap smears.
What May Happen if you Don't Get Treated
Risk of transmitting genital warts to sexual partners. More warts may grow and are more persistent. A pregnant mother with genital warts risks a difficult delivery
and transmitting HPV to her child during childbirth. Infrequently, may cause certain genital cancers.
Treatable?
Yes. Warts can be removed through cryotherapy (freezing with liquid
nitrogen), laser surgery, electrodesiccation (electric currents), trichloracetic
acid, and podophyllin (a chemical solution).
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