CONDYLOMA (Genital Wart)

WHAT IS GENITAL WARTS?

Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection of the genital area caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). It occurs in 1-2% of people between the ages of 15 and 49. There are more than 100 types of human papillomavirus and about half of them can cause a genital wart. The incubation period (the time until the onset of the disease) can be weeks or years.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF GENITAL WARTS?

It starts as a small, skin-coloured, red or brown bump that is more common on the pubis and penile shaft in men, and around the anus and on the labia minora in women, as these are the hot and moist regions. It grows gradually and takes on a cauliflower-like appearance.

HOW IS GENITAL WARTS TRANSMITTED?

It is a sexually transmitted disease, but it can be transmitted without full sexual intercourse, as transmission is almost always through skin contact. The disease is more easily transmitted when conditions such as eczema or persistent vaginal discharge exist in the genital area or at the anus.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Genital warts are usually diagnosed by doctors through a clinical examination. Sometimes a skin biopsy may also be required for diagnosis.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

For the disease there are treatment options such as medications that the patient can apply at home, or cryotherapy, radiofrequency - electrocauterization, laser that the doctor applies in the clinic. All these treatments require repeated applications for weeks or months. The choice of treatment depends on the location, number, size, etc. of the warts.

DOES IT RECUR?

There is a possibility of genital warts recurring even after complete treatment.

IS FOLLOW-UP NECESSARY AFTER TREATMENT?

Regular examination of the genital area for new warts is necessary.
Because of the risk of cervical cancer in women, a smear test should be performed at regular intervals.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS IF I GET GENITAL WARTS?

The virus that causes genital warts can also cause cervical cancer. However, the types of virus that cause genital warts are usually in the low-risk group. In people with problems in the immune system, the sores can be more severe and more difficult to respond to treatment, and the risk of recurrence is higher in these people.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF FROM GENITAL WARTS?

The most reliable way to prevent genital warts is to abstain from sexual intercourse or to have a monogamous relationship with a sexual partner known to be uninfected. Proper and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genital warts. However, genital warts can also occur in areas that are not covered with condoms. Washing the sexual area after intercourse, urination, or cleaning with an antiseptic does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

VACCINATION AGAINST GENITAL WARTS

Girls aged 11-12 years are recommended to receive 3 doses of HPV.
All girls or women aged 13-26 years who have not yet been vaccinated or completed their vaccination series should be vaccinated. Patients infected with one type of virus may also be protected from other types of virus by the vaccine. Therefore, patients with genital warts can also be vaccinated.

PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR SEXUAL PARTNER

If you have genital warts, tell your sexual partner as soon as possible and have him or her examined by a doctor. If your sexual partner is being treated for genital warts, you should also see a doctor. Avoid sexual intercourse if you or your sexual partner have symptoms.
If you have genital warts, you should also get tested for other sexually transmitted diseases. Inform your sexual partner about this.