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Objectives
Have you got a bumpy wart on your genitals or anus? It doesn't hurt, but it bothers you, and you feel like something is wrong. You can’t tell anyone about it, but when you search for it online, dozens of questions have been asked about the same symptoms. What do you actually need to know? Let's find out about genital warts, condyloma, a relatively common type of viral sexually transmitted infection.
Not Just Any Old Wart
✔ Anogenital Warts
Condyloma accuminatum
Condyloma is a skin condition caused by HPV, the Human Papilloma Virus, infection. In general, lesions such as warts appear around the genitals or anus, but in some cases, they can’t be seen by the eye. Itching or bleeding can occur, but there are many cases where there are no symptoms. It is a contact disease and is mainly transmitted by sexual intercourse.
✔ Genital Warts Symptoms
- Hard to tell at first
The incubation period for genital warts is about 3~6 months on average. Symptoms may appear during periods when immunity decreases, such as in-between seasons. It occurs like an abscess around the genitals and anus and gradually spreads to the surroundings. Secondary bacterial infections can smell, cause discharge, and cause genital pain.
- From the Vulva to the Anus?
Depending on the person, there could be no obvious symptoms, but there could be itchiness or pain, increased secretions or odors. It may not only occur in the vulva, but also spread to inside the vagina or the anus.
- Don’t feel relieved if it seems to get better
In particular, if not treated it can seem to get better, but if your immunity decreases, there is a high possibility of recurrence, so the key is to treat it early!
| Location | Vaginal entrance, labial area, urethra, anus, etc. |
| Color | Bright red, flesh colored, etc. |
| Size | 2-3mm |
| Shape | Several small, flat or raised lesions Could form clusters that take on a cauliflower-like shape |
| Features | Repeated occurrences, pain, bleeding |
✔ Genital Warts Treatment
- Don’t try to remove them yourself
Never forcefully remove or scratch the warts. Severe stimulation can lead to a secondary bacterial infection.
- If you go to the OB/GYN?
Lesions are removed through laser treatment, electrocautery, surgical excision, and/or cryotherapy, and drugs are prescribed to treat the infection itself. On average, there is a 25-50% chance of recurrence, so periodic tests and attention are required for about two years.
* Additional tests may be required to distinguish it from cancer or stage 2 syphilis.
- Get treated with your partner
Since the main infection route is sexual contact, it is also necessary to check whether any partners are infected. It can be transmitted even when there are no symptoms, so don't judge just by looking with your eyes. Make sure to visit a hospital for examination and treatment together.
✔ Genital Warts Prevention
The cause of genital warts is HPV. In addition to genital warts, HPV can also cause issues such as cervical and scrotal cancer. It is therefore recommended to get the HPV vaccine and have regular check-ups.
Summary
- Genital warts are a symptom of HPV infection
- If symptoms appear, you should get treated and vaccinated against HPV
