Genital warts are abnormal skin growths that occur in the anal and genital area of both men and women and affect people in the age range of 17-33. Genital warts are very contagious so you must refrain from engaging in sexual activity until no visible signs of genital warts are present. Genital warts are caused due to viruses (HPV -6 and -11) for the most part.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) can possibly lead to the development of genital warts (but not in all cases). There are more than 100 types of HPVs and some people contract the viruses never see genital warts develop in their entire life to do their strong immune systems. If you have frequent unprotected sex with multiple partners, you are increasing your chances in contracting genital warts. You should always use protection and be smart whom you engaged in sexual activity with.
The virus can also penetrate the skin through microscopic abrasions that develop in the genital area when there is skin on skin contact. Once you do come in contact with a person with genital warts, you will typically see signs within a four-month period (if you see anything at all). Many people do not generally show any symptoms if they haven’t after four months.
The majority of the genital warts will appear like fleshy growths (cauliflower reddish or pink shaped lesions) that develop in the anal and genital area. People with genital warts sometimes complain of painless bumps. Lesions generally appear as soft raised masses with finger like projections. If they are small, you won’t be able to see them with the naked eye.
In women, genital warts may appear in the vagina or on the vulva. In men, lesions appear in the penis, urethra, rectal and scrotum area, cause pain and bleeding during sexual intercourse, an increase in dampness and moisture in the affected area, tiny papules are observed on the shaft of the penis, an itching and discomfort in the infected area and a burning sensation is experienced in the anal and genital region. Genital warts can appear in singles or in groups, but it just depends.
One thing you should always do before applying any treatment is speak with a doctor. They will know best how to treat your genital warts because all cases vary in severity. If you see any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you need to call your doctor as soon as possible in order to treat your genital warts effectively. It doesn’t matter if you are a man or woman you have a genital wart, what does matter is that you seek some form of treatment quickly.
