This article has been professionally consulted by the Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist – Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.
Although both are sexually transmitted infections with names that may cause confusion, genital warts and genital herpes are two different conditions. The best way to prevent them is to practice safe sex.
1. Causes of the disease
1.1. Genital warts
Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are many different types of HPV that cause various diseases, but only a few types cause genital warts.
HPV is highly contagious through skin-to-skin contact, but not everyone infected with HPV will develop the disease. In fact, in most cases, the body will eliminate the virus and the disease does not occur.
1.2. Genital herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), specifically HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV enters the body through mucous membranes; both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are present in the bodily fluids of infected individuals (such as saliva, semen, vaginal secretions, etc.).
Trắc nghiệm: Bận rộn có ảnh hưởng đến sức khỏe của bạn không?
Cuộc sống hiện đại khiến chúng ta vì quá bận rộn mà quên chăm sóc sức khỏe cho chính mình. Ai cũng biết rằng lịch trình làm việc cả ngày có thể khiến bạn kiệt sức, nhưng cụ thể bận rộn ảnh hưởng thế nào tới sức khỏe? Hãy cùng làm thử bài trắc nghiệm dưới đây.
2. Symptoms of the disease
2.1. Genital warts
Genital warts are a condition caused by a sexually transmitted infection, transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, and can appear as soft papillomas (warts) in various locations, including the genitals and surrounding areas such as: the genital area, anus, lips, mouth, tongue, throat, buttocks, thighs, etc.
Although genital warts may not always be visible, they can still present symptoms such as abnormal discharge, itching, burning, bleeding, etc.
If genital warts spread or grow, they may cause discomfort, inconvenience, or even pain.
2.2. Genital herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection characterized by vesicles filled with fluid and pain. Herpes outbreaks typically occur suddenly, and the blisters may appear within 2 days of virus infection, or it may take longer (even up to 30 days).
Herpes can appear at any location that comes into contact with the source of infection, but it most commonly occurs in the genital area, lips, mouth, and tongue. The affected areas may experience itching or a tingling sensation before the blisters appear. These blisters can burst and release the fluid inside. Associated symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
3. Treatment Methods
3.1. Genital warts
So far, there is no cure for HPV. Genital warts can only be treated symptomatically. Depending on the clinical condition, the doctor may prescribe topical medications (containing imiquimod, podophyllin, podofilox, or trichloroacetic acid), or may recommend procedural interventions such as electrocoagulation, cryotherapy, laser therapy, etc.
3.2. Genital herpes
Like HPV, there is currently no cure for HSV. To reduce the symptoms of genital herpes, the doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to relieve pain, reduce symptoms, and shorten the healing time.
4. Prevention methods
Both diseases are sexually transmitted, so the best prevention method is practicing safe sex. Currently, HPV can only be prevented through the HPV vaccine.
Vinmec International General Hospital offers a screening package for sexually transmitted diseases for both men and women, aimed at early detection and effective treatment to prevent complications.
Customers with risk factors such as unsafe sexual practices, tattooing, or drug injection, as well as those who have previously received blood transfusions or blood products, are considered high-risk patients.
During the examination, the customer will undergo tests such as: Rapid HIV Ab test, Rapid Chlamydia test, Rapid Treponema pallidum test, qualitative and quantitative Treponema pallidum TPHA test, bacterial and fungal staining tests.
Based on the test results, the doctor will provide a diagnosis, advise the patient, and give advice on preventing sexually transmitted diseases in general, as well as genital warts and genital herpes specifically.
To arrange an appointment, please call … or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
