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GENITAL WARTS

Genital warts are soft, wart-like growths on the skin  membranes of the genitals. They are caused by a family of viruses called human papilloma virus (HPV). Over 70 different types of HPV are known to exist. Several types of HPV cause genital warts, which may be found on the penis,  vagina, cervix, anus and in the larynx..

HPV infection around the genitals is common, and the fast-rising incidence amongst the 17-25 age group is causing particular concern. Infection is not always obvious and some people are unaware of any symptoms. In females, HPV can invade the walls of the vagina and cervix and these warts are not easy to detect. Some types of high risk' HPVs can lead to precancerous changes in the cervix, cervical cancer, or anal cancer.

Genital warts are highly infectious – it is estimated that there is a 60% chance of becoming infected from sexual contact with an infected partner.  The virus is passed through contact involving the skin of the anus, mouth, vagina, penis and mucus membrane. Warts may not appear for weeks and up to six months following infection, and it could be years before you become aware of them. This means that when you first notice genital warts, it does not mean that your partner has had sexual contact outside your relationship.

SYMPTOMS

Genital warts may be flat or raised, and are usually flesh-coloured. They may join and develop into cauliflower-like growths. Sometimes they are so flat and small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye.

Common places to find genital warts:

• Women usually have warts in or around the vagina or anus, on the skin around these areas, or on the cervix.
• Men have warts on the penis, scrotum and groin area, and those who have anal intercouirse may develop them in and around the anus.
• Both sexes may have warts on the lips, mouth, tongue, palate, or throat (larynx)

other symptoms may include dampness or moisture in the area of the growths, and Increase in vaginal discharge, itching and irritation,  and vaginal bleeding during or after intercourse

TREATMENT

Genital warts must be treated by a clinical professional – there is no point in using over-the-counter treatments intended for other kinds of warts. There are a variety of treatments including skin medications and extending to cryosurgery (freezing the warts), electronic and laser treatments and even surgical excision for extreme cases.

If you have developed genital warts, it is important that your partner is also examined to see if he or she has also contracted the virus. Once treated, you should have follow-up examinations at least once a year to ensure things are OK. If the warts were on the cervix, then the checkups should be every three months until the 'all clear'. This is because cervical warts are the principle cause of cervical cancer.  

PLEASE NOTE:
The information provided is intended only as a general guide to provide an overview of the condition. It must not be relied upon for any medical purpose.
Symptoms can vary a great deal from person to person, and the symptoms for various conditions can be identical.  
We therefore advise strongly against any self-diagnosis or self treatment based on this information and indeed, as a general principle.

The identification and treatment of any condition should be conducted only by a medical professional after due consultation.

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