Genital warts

About

Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts can appear on the vulva, penis, scrotum, and around or inside the anus. They may be single or multiple, small or large in size, raised or flat, and either flesh-colored or pink-grey. Genital warts can sometimes cause itching and discomfort, although you may not experience any symptoms. Treatment for genital warts includes topical creams, laser removal, and surgical procedures. Prevention of genital warts is possible by using condoms during sexual intercourse and getting the HPV vaccine.

Symptoms

The symptoms of genital warts vary from person to person, but generally include small fleshy bumps or lumps in the genital area. The warts may be flat or raised, single or multiple, large or small. They can also be itchy, burning, or even painful. In some cases, the bumps may become bleedy or develop a cauliflower-like appearance. Genital warts are usually painless, but they can cause discomfort and be distressing, especially when they occur in areas that are difficult to keep clean and dry.

Causes

Genital warts are caused by human papillomaviruses (HPV). HPV is a very common virus that is spread through sexual contact. It is estimated that at least half of sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives. Over 100 types of HPV exist, and approximately 40 of those can affect the genital area. It is not always possible to know who passed HPV to whom, as the virus can remain dormant for months or even years before it causes visible symptoms. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting HPV.

Risk factors

Genital warts are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Risk factors for developing genital warts include having unprotected sex with an infected partner, having multiple sexual partners, having a weakened immune system, having a previous sexual partner with HPV, smoking, douching, and having an inherited susceptibility to the virus. Additionally, having other sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis increases the risk for developing genital warts.

Diagnosis

Genital warts are usually diagnosed through a physical examination of the affected areas by a medical professional. The appearance of genital warts can vary, but they typically appear as small, flesh-colored bumps or clusters of bumps in the genital area. Genital warts may be diagnosed by visual inspection alone, or a biopsy may be taken for further examination in a lab. In some cases, a doctor may use an acetic acid solution to help determine if a wart is present. Genital warts can also be identified through DNA testing.

Sub-types

Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 200 different types of HPV, but only a few are known to cause genital warts.

The most common subtypes of genital warts include:

Condylomata Acuminata: These are the most common type, typically appearing as moist and fleshy growths.
Buschke-Lowenstein Tumor: These warts typically appear as large, cauliflower-like masses and may cause pain and discomfort.
Flat Warts: These are the smallest type of genital warts, appearing as small, flat, pink- or flesh-colored bumps.
Common Warts: Common warts are usually found on the hands, but can also appear on the genital area. They appear as small, thick bumps with a rough surface.
Intraepithelial Warts: These warts appear as small, flesh-colored bumps on the genital area that may have a velvety appearance.
Flat Condylomata Acuminata: These warts are similar to condylomata acuminata, but are less raised and appear flat.
Giant Condylomata Acuminata: These are large, cauliflower-like growths that can cause pain and discomfort.

Treatments

The treatment options for Genital warts vary and depend on the size, location and number of warts. Common treatments include:

Cryotherapy: Freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen
Surgical removal: Cutting away the warts
Electrocautery: Burning away the warts with an electric current
Laser treatment: Directing a laser beam to target and vaporize the warts
Topical treatments: Applying creams directly onto the warts, such as imiquimod, trichloroacetic acid and podophyllin
Intralesional injections: Injecting medication into the wart
Photodynamic therapy: Applying light-activated drugs directly onto the warts
Interferon injections: Injecting medication directly into the wart

Prevention

One way to reduce the risk of genital warts is to practice safe sex. This includes using condoms and dental dams correctly every time you have sex. It is also important to avoid having sex with multiple partners and to get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections. Vaccines are also available to reduce the risk of genital warts caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Gender differences?

Yes, there are gender-specific differences in the presentation and management of genital warts.

In men, genital warts most commonly appear on the penis and scrotum, while in women they may occur on the vulva, cervix, and anus. Genital warts in men may also be more likely to cause pain, ulceration, and bleeding, while in women they can be asymptomatic or cause only slight itching.

The management and treatment of genital warts vary based on gender. In men, treatments may include topical creams or gels, surgical removal, cryotherapy, and even laser therapy. In women, medical treatments such as cryotherapy or topical creams or gels may be used, but laser therapy may not be an appropriate option due to the risk of scarring. Additionally, women may be prescribed birth control pills to suppress wart growth.

Nutrition

Nutrition plays an important role in the management of genital warts. Proper nutrition can help boost the immune system and strengthen the body’s natural defenses, making it better equipped to fight infections, including the virus that causes genital warts. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help give the body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and fight off infection. Additionally, reducing or avoiding alcohol, nicotine, and other substances that can suppress the immune system may be beneficial. An overall healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of, and manage the symptoms of, genital warts.

Physical Activity

Physical activity has no known effect on the development of genital warts, as the HPV virus responsible for the condition is usually spread through sexual contact. However, exercise and physical activity can indirectly affect genital warts in some cases, as participating in physical activity may help to improve an individual’s overall health and reduce their risk for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Additionally, exercise may help to reduce stress levels, which could indirectly reduce the risk of contracting an STI such as HPV, which is the virus responsible for genital warts.