Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Symptoms

Symptoms may be in the form of spots, warts or other cell changes on the mucus membranes of the genitals or the skin. Genital warts can also look deceptively like natural lumps on the genitals.

Diagnosis

A doctor can easily detect conventional genital warts or condyloma by simply examining the genital area. Some warts can nevertheless remain undetected, especially in men, where the warts are around the opening of the urethra and the anus.

Treatment

Genital warts are caused by a virus, so treatment does not constitute a cure. The outbreak usually gets better by itselfI. The body builds up immunity against the virus, preventing further infections of the same kind, but it does not provide immunity against other virus types.

Generally, visible warts tend to be removed. The most usual treatment is local treatment, but different methods are employed depending on the case. Often the doctor treats genital warts with a cream available by prescription, which, when applied to the affected area, activates the body's immune system to attack the virus.

Treatment requires perseverance because, in addition to the warts that are already visible, the infection could be starting elsewhere on the mucus membrane. It is important to monitor after treatment.