Genital warts, or venereal warts, come from the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). You can get it from sex. The warts are small and can be gray. They grow on the private parts and can make sex hurt, itch, or bleed.
Doctors find genital warts by looking. They might also use a Pap test, DNA test, or cut a small piece to check under a microscope. While there’s no way to completely get rid of HPV, many treatments can help. You can use salicylic acid or get special creams. In some cases, the doctor might need to do a small surgery to remove them.
It’s sad but true; HPV might not go away even with treatment. This means you can still give it to someone else. To stop HPV and avoid getting the warts or some cancers it can cause, you should get vaccinated. Both girls and boys should get the vaccine starting at 11 or 12 years old.
Key Takeaways:
- Genital warts, caused by HPV, are sexually transmitted infections that can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Common symptoms include small, discolored warts on the genitals, itching, discomfort, and bleeding during sex.
- Genital warts can be diagnosed through visual examination by a doctor and confirmed with tests like Pap smear, DNA test, or biopsy.
- Treatment options include over-the-counter salicylic acid products, prescription medications, and surgical intervention.
- Vaccination is available to prevent HPV infections and reduce the risk of genital warts and certain types of cancer associated with HPV.
HPV Infection and Cancer Risk
HPV infection, especially with high-risk strains, can raise the chance of getting several types of cancer. This includes cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx.
The immune system is key in fighting off the virus. It helps stop cancer from forming. Yet, cancer risk grows if the immune system doesn’t clear the virus or if the infection stays.
Routine screening helps find early signs of cancer. For women, a Pap smear is good for catching cervical changes from HPV early. Finding issues early means doctors can treat them sooner, lowering the chance of cancer growing.
Diagnosing HPV infections in males is somewhat harder. But, men who have anal sex might need an anal Pap smear to check for problems.
Cancers caused by HPV can take a long time to show up. Finding and treating them early is very important. The right treatment depends on the cancer type, its stage, and the person’s overall health. This might include surgery, radiation, chemo, or targeted drugs.
Knowing about HPV and its link to cancer helps people take control. They can do things like get regular check-ups and seek fast treatment if needed.
HPV-Related Cancers
| Cancer Type | Common Sites |
|---|---|
| Cervical Cancer | Cervix |
| Vulvar Cancer | Vulva |
| Vaginal Cancer | Vagina |
| Penile Cancer | Penis |
| Anal Cancer | Anus |
| Oropharyngeal Cancer | Tonsils, base of tongue |
Prevention and Vaccination
Getting vaccinated with the HPV vaccine is the top way to avoid getting HPV and genital warts. It’s good for both boys and girls, starting at 11-12 years old. These shots are divided into two, given 6-12 months apart. Right now, there are three vaccines against HPV.
Using barrier protection, like condoms or dental dams, can also lower your chance of getting HPV during sex. It’s a good idea to avoid sex if you or your partner has genital warts. Keeping the number of sexual partners low helps, too.
Washing your hands often and not sharing personal items can cut down on how HPV spreads. These are basic but important steps for everyone, even if you’ve had HPV before.
Preventing HPV is vital. But we also need more tests for HPV, especially for guys. Finding HPV early and getting help if you have it can make a big difference in keeping warts away and reducing other risks.