Genital Warts/HPV  – What You Need to Know

Genital warts are considered sexually transmitted infections in which soft growths appear on the genitalia. These growths cause discomfort, pain, and itching. These are caused due to low-risk strains of a virus called Human Papillomavirus or HPV. These are considered different from the other types of high-risk strains which result in cancer and cervical dysplasia.

The condition is among the most common ones in STIs. People who are sexually active are more susceptible to the complications of the condition, which also include genital warts, a staggering 80%. Moreover, the HPV infection is considered highly dangerous for females as the high-risk types might result in cancer of the vulva and cervix.

These appear on the following sites of males including:

  • Scrotum
  • Penis
  • Groin
  • Inside or outside the anus
  • Thighs
  • In females, the common sites include:
  • Inside the anus or vagina
  • External of the anus or vagina
  • On the cervical region

Genital warts might also happen in the mouth, tongue, or lips of an individual who might have oral sexual contact with an HPV-positive person.

The Signs and Symptoms of Genital Warts/HPV

Some of the symptoms of genital warts include the following:

  • Itching
  • Bleeding
  • Burning
  • Vaginal discharge

The Causes of Genital Warts/HPV

Mostly genital warts happen because of HPV. There are more than 30 to 40 kinds of strains of HPV which affect the human genitals. However, some of the strains might cause genital warts. The virus is easily transferred via skin contact. That is why it is taken as an STI. In fact, HPV is so common that the Centers for Disease Control Prevention says that highly sexually active people may contract the condition at some stage of their lives.

The Treatment Options for Genital Warts/HPV

You might be given treatments that include the following:

Podofilox

Imiquimod

Trichloroacetic Acid

If the growths don’t subside with time, you might require some kind of surgery to remove them. Your physician might remove genital warts via the procedures:

Electrocautery which is burning the growths with electric currents

Freezing warts or cryosurgery

Laser treatments

Cutting off warts or excision

Interferon drug injection

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, telemedicine makes it possible for you to get the care you deserve. Schedule a virtual consultation with a Telakai Health online Provider and get on the road to recovery. Schedule your visit today.