Understanding and Managing Genital Warts in Women
Genital Warts, a prevalent Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), are soft growths on genital skin and mucous membranes caused by certain types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
They may show up on different parts of the genitals, including the penis, vulva, urethra, vagina, cervix, and around or inside the anus.
Each year, HPV causes Genital Warts in 340,000 to 360,000 people, with about one in 100 sexually active adults in the U.S. experiencing them at any given time.
While Genital Warts may cause discomfort, they are non-cancerous and do not result in additional health issues.
These warts can impact both genders, but there is a higher prevalence of diagnosed cases in women compared to men.
To learn more about Genital Warts in women and how you can get rid of them, read this article.
Understanding Genital Warts in women
Genital warts in women can sometimes resolve on their own, although the duration may vary.
They are usually found on or near the vagina, including the labia, and can also appear in or around the anus.
While a majority of women with Genital Warts may not experience any symptoms, in fewer cases, there might be sensations of itching, burning, or tenderness in the genital area.
It can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact with someone who has HPV on their skin.
They can be passed from person to person during vaginal and anal sex, and it’s also rarely passed on through oral sex.
Risk factors for developing Genital Warts in women
The risk factors for developing Genital Warts in women include:
- The HPV vaccine aids in safeguarding against the prevalent types of HPV that typically lead to the development of these warts
- Having unprotected sex or having multiple partners can elevate the risk of HPV infection, including the strains responsible for Genital Warts
- A prior sexually transmitted infection, like Herpes or Chlamydia, can elevate the likelihood of contracting HPV and the onset of Genital Wart
Symptoms
The symptoms of Genital Warts in women can vary; in many cases, women with warts do not have any symptoms.
However, when symptoms are present, they may include:
- Visible bumps: Genital Warts often present as a single growth and sometimes as a cluster of multiple growths. They may be very small or appear as large clusters and may have a cauliflower-like shape caused by several warts close together
- Itching, burning, or tenderness: Less commonly, women may experience itching, burning, or tenderness in the genital area
- Location: It can appear in and around the vagina, vulva, or anus and on the cervix. They may also develop on the labia minora of the vagina
Impact of Genital Warts on women’s sexual health
Genital warts can have a significant impact on women’s sexual health, leading to various physical, emotional, and psychological effects.
- Genital Warts can have a negative impact on women’s sexual health
- Women with Genital Warts may encounter sexual dysfunction, which can affect various aspects of their intimate and emotional well-being
- Genital Warts can also threaten the sexual health of couples, these warts have the most negative impacts on couples’ sexual lives
- Studies have shown that women with Genital Warts are more vulnerable in the aspects of the mental body and sexual impacts
Treatment for Genital Warts
The treatment for Genital Warts in women can involve various approaches, including topical medications and procedures.
Some of the common treatments include:
Medications
Following are some of the medications that can help:
- Imiquimod (Zyclara): This cream appears to enhance the immune system’s capability to combat Genital Warts. Apply it directly to the warts, and refrain from sexual contact while the cream is present on the skin
- Podofilox: This medication is applied to external warts to stop the wart cells from growing
- Sinecatechins (Veregen): An ointment made of green tea extract that can treat external warts and warts around the anus
- Trichloroacetic acid: It is a chemical treatment that eliminates Genital Warts and can also address internal warts
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary to eliminate larger or more persistent warts that do not respond to medication.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy for Genital warts involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen to destroy them. It aims to remove warts by causing them to freeze and fall off during the healing process
- Electrocautery: It employs an electric current to burn off warts, potentially causing post-procedure pain and swelling
- Surgical excision: Surgical excision involves cutting off warts during a procedure requiring anesthesia to manage pain, with potential discomfort afterward
Prevention
Prevention of Genital Warts in women involves various measures, including:
- Taking HPV vaccine: Receiving a vaccine targeting the HPV types commonly associated with these warts can offer protection.
- Ensuring protection: Using condoms and dental dams consistently during sexual intimacy can lower the risk of transmitting HPV and genital warts
- Avoiding sexual activity during outbreaks: Refraining from sexual activity when visible warts are present can help prevent the spread of the virus
- Avoiding smoking: Smoking has been identified as a risk factor for the development of these warts
- Promoting hygiene: Regularly cleansing the genital area is a helpful practice to lower the risk of transmission
Conclusion
Genital Warts, caused by specific strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), pose a common challenge to women’s sexual health.
While discomfort may arise, they are generally non-cancerous and do not lead to additional health problems.
Preventive measures, such as the HPV vaccine, safe sexual practices, and maintaining good hygiene, play a significant role in reducing the risk of transmission.
Recognising the potential impact on mental and sexual well-being, it’s essential to address and treat genital warts promptly.
Various treatment options, from medications to surgical procedures, offer effective solutions.
By fostering awareness, promoting prevention, and seeking timely treatment, women can navigate the challenges of genital warts and prioritize their overall sexual health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Genital Warts in women?
Genital warts in women are commonly caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a widespread sexually transmitted infection. The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, especially during sexual activities like vaginal or anal intercourse.
How do you know if you have Genital Warts?
Doctors or nurses diagnose Genital Warts by looking at lumps around your genitals and anus. They might use a magnifying lens and ask about your symptoms and sexual partners for a thorough assessment.
What do women’s Genital Warts look like?
Women’s Genital Warts appear as skin-colored or whitish bumps resembling tiny pieces of cauliflower. You may have one or several, and they can vary in size. While they might be itchy, they usually don’t cause much pain.
How can Genital Warts in women be treated?
To treat Genital Warts in women, options include topical medications, cryotherapy, surgical removal, or laser therapy. Consult your doctor for a personalized plan based on severity. Vaccines can prevent certain HPV strains, reducing future risks.
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