Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
They are small growths (single or groups), in the genital area (inside the vagina, on the vulva, cervix, and in or around the anus) or on the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat -due to oral sex). They can be tiny enough to not be seen or they can be large and look like florets of cauliflower.
Both men and women can get warts.
HPV passes from one to another by direct skin contact, especially during vaginal oral or anal sex.
It can pass on to the baby during childbirth in case the mother has warts at the time of delivery. Not all HPV types will cause warts. All HPV infections may not necessarily cause warts. Some may build natural immunity and may not manifest warts. They may appear within a few days of infection or may take years.
Genital warts may be asymptomatic or may cause itching, burning, and discomfort.
Management Of Genital Warts
There is no cure for HPV infection
One can take a vaccine to prevent HPV.
Warts can be removed by the specialist. They are removed by certain chemicals, laser, and cryotherapy.
Warts In Pregnancy
They can grow in size and number due to hormonal changes and can bleed.
In case they are present in the birth canal, then the caesarean section will be required to prevent the baby from getting infected.
If the baby is inadvertently born through an infected canal and comes in contact with warts, then it may develop warts in the respiratory tract.
You can see a specialist and consider the treatment if you have warts. You can also use the same opportunity to check for other STI’s and discuss options for safe sex.
The good news is that warts do not turn into cancer. But the bad news is that HPV stays with you as it cannot be cured. So, you may continue to pass on the infection to your sexual contacts.
