Warts aren't just on your hands and feet – they can also pop up in your lady parts. We're talking about genital warts caused by a virus you can catch during intimate moments. The good news is, it's not too serious, ladies. Let's dive in and learn more about it!
What Are Genital Warts?
Genital warts, or genital skin warts, are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. Unlike some other forms of HPV, these don't lead to cancer. Anyone sexually active can be at risk of getting genital warts.
These warts appear in your private areas as small lumps that might look like bits of flesh or even tiny cauliflowers. They can be solitary or in groups, and some are so tiny you might not notice them at all. So, sometimes you might have them without knowing it.
Symptoms
Genital warts are passed on through sexual activities like vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Sometimes, you won't see any symptoms for a few weeks or months after infection. In women, these warts can pop up inside the vagina, around the anus, outside the vagina or anus, and even on the cervix. Surprisingly, they can also appear on your lips, mouth, tongue, or throat if you've had oral sex with someone who has HPV.
If you can't see them, genital warts might make themselves known through vaginal discharge, itching, a burning sensation in the affected area, or even bleeding. Without treatment, they can spread and grow, causing discomfort and pain.
One of the symptoms of genital warts is itching and burning feeling
Reason
About 90% of genital warts are due to low-risk HPV types 6 and 11. You can catch this virus through skin-to-skin contact during sex. Sometimes, your body's immune system can eliminate the virus without causing health problems. Genital warts can spread in various ways, such as:
- Anal or vaginal sex
- Skin-to-skin contact during sexual activities (even without ejaculation)
- Engaging in oral sex with someone who has HPV or genital warts
- Having multiple sexual partners and not using condoms
- Starting sexual activity at a young age
- Having a weakened immune system
Genital warts can be caused by anal sex
Risk Factors
If you're sexually active, you're at risk of getting genital warts. Still, some factors make it more likely, including having multiple sexual partners, having a weakened immune system, being under 30 years old, and smoking. Genital warts and HPV can occur at any age, so even if you've had treatment, there's a chance they could return.
Treatment
A strong immune system can help your body clear genital warts naturally. However, sometimes they can grow or multiply, causing discomfort. Here are some methods to get rid of them:
- Electrocautery (burning the wart using an electric current)
- Freezing (using liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove the wart)
- Laser treatment (destroying the small blood vessels in the wart with a laser)
- Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (using an electrically charged wire loop to remove warts, typically on the cervix)
- Topical medication (applying a chemical cream to the wart)
- Surgery (an option if other treatments don't work)
Now you have a better understanding of genital warts. It's essential to have open communication with your partner about reproductive health. Remember, this condition is common and treatable, so if you suspect you have genital warts, don't hesitate to consult a doctor. You can also make use of services like those offered at Fitie. Stay informed and take care of your health, ladies!