Read More About HPV:
HPV and Genital Wart Symptoms
HPV is transmitted via skin-to-skin contact, and sexual intercourse is not necessary to contract it. We know that there are several strains of HPV. Each is independent and unique, causing different effects on the body. Each strain of HPV has been assigned a number, and we know that HPV 6 and 11 are known to cause genital warts. We also know that HPV 16, 18, and several others are associated with cervical cancer.HPV can be a deceiving virus because it doesn't always produce symptoms. This means that infected individuals can have genital warts or another sign of the virus, but presence of these symptoms isn't necessary to indicate infection. A person can be infected with a strain of HPV known to cause genital warts and never actually have genital warts. He or she can, however, still be infected and transmit the virus to others.
What Do Genital Warts Look Like?
Genital warts are flesh-toned or gray, raised or flat growths that appear on, in, and around the genitals. They can grow in clusters that resemble cauliflower, or they can appear singularly.In women, genital warts appear inside and outside of the vagina and inner thighs. They can also affect the anal region, growing in and outside of the anus. In men, genital warts can appear on the penis, scrotum, testicles, anus, groin, and thighs.
Several pictures of genital warts circulate on the Internet. These are often extreme cases that are so severe that they block the vaginal and anal openings. Please note that cases such as these are not common, and these photos should not be used to compare your personal symptoms for self-diagnosis. If you suspect that you may have genital warts, see your doctor. Self diagnosis of any condition is never recommended.
Again, it's important to remember that lack of visible genital warts does not mean that an individual is not infected with HPV.
Diagnosing Genital Warts
Genital warts are diagnosed through visual examination from a doctor or other healthcare professional. If genital warts are suspected, the doctor may apply an acetic solution to the suspected areas, though this is not a routine screening test. These areas will temporarily whiten in reaction to the solution if you indeed have genital warts.
Treating Genital Warts
While there is no cure for genital warts, there are ways to manage them. Topical prescription medication can be applied to affected areas, either in office or at home. In some cases, the warts are removed surgically or frozen.The bad news is that the warts can and do often return, making more treatments necessary for removal.
Sources: "Sexually Transmitted Diseases". HPV and Men: CDC Fact Sheet. 14 Aug 2007. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/STD/hpv/STDFact-HPV-and-men.htm#whatare.
"Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2006". Genital Warts. 04 March 2006. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment/2006/genital-warts.htm.
