They are called condyloma, or genital warts, and are fleshy growths which appear in the genital area. They are caused by a virus called the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and they are infectious. Warts are a sexually transmitted disease and, like other kinds of warts, may reoccur. Common skin warts are not generally transferred to the genitals from other body parts.
What are the symptoms of genital warts?
Genital warts first appear as small pink or red bumps on the vulva (lips of the vagina), vagina, cervix, penis shaft, scrotum, urinary opening or rectum. They are usually painless, but some people may have itching, burning or slight bleeding from these areas. They tend to appear in clusters, three or four warts at once. They may grow and spread rapidly or seem to change very little for long periods of time. They may become worse during a pregnancy or when a vaginal infection is present. Newborns may acquire this virus from an infected mother during labor and delivery, although this is uncommon.
The time between exposure to the virus and the appearance of warts is not known. It could be anywhere from several weeks to several years before symptoms occur. Because of this, it is hard to tell when and where you were exposed to the virus.
How are genital warts diagnosed?
The diagnosis is made by inspecting the genital area. Sometimes the area is swabbed with a vinegar and water solution to better identify the warts. Tissue biopsy is not usually necessary, unless the growths fail to respond to treatment. If growths are inside the rectum, urinary tract, or on the cervix, biopsies usually are necessary. Additionally, if they involve the vagina or are on the cervix, an examination with a microscope (called a colposcope) may be required. The colposcope magnifies the warts to help in diagnosis. An exam with a colposcope is similar to a regular pelvic examination and is not painful, however if a tissue biopsy is necessary this may cause some mild cramping.
In addition, both men and women should have tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Blood tests for syphilis are sometimes needed as well, since syphilis can also cause a warty looking growth.
What are the risks associated with genital warts?
Pre-cancerous tissue changes called “dysplasia” may occur on the cervix if exposed to certain types of HPV. This is why it is important to always have a Pap test at least every year. Pap tests may be needed more frequently if instructed by your doctor. Early diagnosis of dysplasia is very important so that treatment can be started before the changes progress to true cancer.
Any time a person or their partner(s) thinks they may have genital warts, both should be examined. Men (with or without evidence of warts) should wear a condom until there are no warts evident in either partner.
How are genital warts treated?
Treatment varies depending on the number, size, and location of the warts. Some warts will disappear on their own. Others may come and go despite vigorous treatment. Treatments may include: an application of a chemical that will shrink the warts; freezing (cryotherapy); or laser treatments. None of the treatments are a guarantee that the warts will never come back.
How can genital warts be prevented?
Do not have sexual relations with anyone who has genital warts or has had treatment for them.
Use a condom, even if using another method of birth control. Condoms may not prevent the spread of warts between sexual partners, but it is a recommended method of protection. Condoms provide protection against other sexually transmitted diseases as well.
Celibacy or abstinence (not having sex) is the best way to prevent genital warts.
