This is an automatically translated article.
The article is professionally consulted by Doctor Specialist Doctor II Tran Thi Mai Huong - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.
Genital warts are soft papillae that appear in the genital area (commonly known as warts). Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
1. What are genital warts?
Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are many types of HPV, but only a few types cause genital warts. HPV is spread very strongly by skin-to-skin contact. In fact, HPV is so common that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that most sexually active people get HPV at some point. In addition, because HPV is spread very strongly by skin-to-skin contact, and because HPV has many types, the risk of exposure to many different types of HPV is very likely.
However, not every HPV infection will lead to disease (like genital warts). Fortunately, in most cases the virus will be eliminated by the body's immune system and not cause disease.
2. What are the risk factors for genital warts?
All sexually active people are at risk for HPV infection, but genital warts are more common in people:
Under 30 years old. Smoke. Have a weak immune system. Have a history of abuse. Having a mother infected with HPV during childbirth.
3. What are the possible complications?
HPV is very contagious, and the risk of exposure to many different types of HPV is great. So far, it has been identified that HPV is the cause of several types of cancer, such as cervical cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer,...
4. When to see a doctor?
When symptoms of genital warts appear, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Genital warts are soft papillomas, usually appearing on the genitals, genital area, mouth, lips, tongue, buttocks, thighs, ... Genital warts are the same color as the skin or darker, The tip of the papilla may look like a cauliflower, the surface may be smooth or rough. Warts may appear singly or in clusters. Sometimes warts are not visible, but still have other manifestations such as: abnormal vaginal discharge, itching, burning, bleeding,...
Currently, there is no cure for HPV completely, only HPV can be cured. can treat symptoms. With warts, depending on the specific clinical case, the doctor may prescribe topical drugs (components containing imiquimod, podophyllin and podofilox, or trichloroacetic acid), or appoint procedural interventions (electrocautery, cryotherapy, laser, etc.) ...).
To prevent genital warts, the first line of defense is practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated against HPV.
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Article referenced source: Healthline.com
