This article has been professionally consulted by doctors from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.
Genital herpes and genital warts are both sensitive topics. Most patients often confuse the two due to their similar symptoms, leading to incorrect treatment and worsening of the condition.
1. Differentiating genital warts and genital herpes
1.1. Causes
Genital warts are caused by the Human papilloma virus (HPV), which leads to the formation of warts on the skin and mucous membranes.
Genital herpes is caused by the Herpes simplex virus (HSV).
1.2. Incubation period
Genital warts have an incubation period of about 3 weeks to 9 months.
Genital herpes has a shorter incubation period, about 6-10 days.
1.3. Symptoms
Genital warts: After incubation, patients manifest small, soft, raised warts, about 1-2 mm in diameter, begin to appear. These are round, flat, pink, and have a rough surface. Over time, they can merge into larger clusters resembling cauliflower or cockscomb on moist surfaces that may ooze pus. The warts are found in the genital areas, anus, rectum, and occasionally the eyes, mouth, or tongue. They are soft, prone to discharge pus, and may bleed upon pressure. In women, excessive vaginal discharge with a foul smell is common, causing pain and discomfort. Fever and discomfort may accompany the condition.
Genital herpes: Before more severe symptoms manifest, the patient experiences discomfort, itching, and a burning sensation. Initial symptoms include redness and swelling, which quickly develop into round, clustered blisters. These blisters contain clear fluid, which becomes cloudy over time. After a few days, the blisters burst, leaving brown or yellow crusts that adhere tightly. Once these crusts fall off, they leave red marks that gradually heal without scarring. The affected areas can cause pain and itching. After a few hours, in women, sores may appear on the vulva, labia, or cervix, while in men, sores are often found on the penis.
Pain during urination and unusual vaginal discharge in women are common symptoms. Even after healing, this condition is prone to recurrence. Initial infections may also cause flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, headaches, mild fever, stress, difficulty urinating, itching and pain in genital area, etc.
2. Complications of genital herpes and genital warts
Genital warts are recurrent and currently lack a definitive cure. Complications include vaginal and cervical cancer in women or penile and throat cancer in men. Both men and women may experience pain during intercourse, affecting marital relations. Pregnant women may transmit the condition to their fetus. Overall, the complications of genital warts significantly increase the risk of cancers such as cervical cancer and penile cancer.
On the other hand, genital herpes can cause genital sores. If left untreated, it may lead to severe complications such as secondary bacterial infections, cervical inflammation (cervicitis), endometritis, and pelvic inflammatory disease in women. In men, it may result in epididymitis and prostatitis.
Pregnant women with genital herpes can transmit the infection to their baby during vaginal delivery, potentially causing brain damage, blindness, or even death in the newborn.
Both genital warts and genital herpes are sexually transmitted infections. The best way to prevent them is by practicing safe sex and using protective measures correctly for both partners. Couples are also encouraged to visit medical facilities for regular screenings to detect early signs of these conditions and seek timely interventions to prevent transmission.
Vinmec International General Hospital offers a Social Disease Screening and Detection Package to help patients detect these conditions early and receive effective treatment to prevent complications.
When registering for the package, customers will receive:
- Consultation with a dermatologist.
- Laboratory tests, including rapid tests for HIV antibodies, Chlamydia, Treponemapallidum;
- PHA Treponema pallidum (qualitative and quantitative), and examinations for bacterial or fungal infections.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
