7 things you need to know about Genital Warts

Maybe you have noticed unusual wart-like symptoms in your genital area, or maybe you are just curious. What are Genital Warts? Are they common? Why are they there? Can I get rid of them? How can I prevent them? Look no further, we have all the answers you need.

1. 90% of all Genital Warts are caused by types 6 and 11 of the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are many different types of this virus. Some types are high risk and associated with an increased risk of cancer. The good news is that the types which cause Genital Warts are considered to be low risk for cancer.

2. Warts appear as flat or textured lumps and may be described as similar to ‘cauliflowers’ or ‘raspberries’.

3. Since the HPV viruses are highly contagious, Genital Warts are easily spread through person-to-person contact. This means that even if you have used a barrier protection method, you can contract Genital Warts from another person.

4. It is possible to pass on the virus when no symptoms are present, so you could unknowingly pass Genital Warts to another person through sexual contact or catch them from someone who has no visible warts.

5. Genital Warts can be dangerous if passed from mother to baby during childbirth, potentially causing a life-threatening condition. It is important for any women who are pregnant or thinking of having a child to treat any visible warts.

6. There is no cure for an HPV infection, although the immune system can sometimes clear it on its own. However, there are treatments available to reduce or remove visible warts, including creams, lasers or surgery. Cryotherapy is the term used for removing warts by freezing.

7. There is a vaccine available which can protect against high-risk types of HPV, but it will not eliminate an existing infection. It does not protect against every type of HPV, so it is still possible to contract Genital Warts even after vaccination.

Testing for HPV with Better2Know

Better2Know can arrange testing for HPV. We also offer a vaccine against HPV for both men and women, and treatment for Genital Warts. Book online or contact our sexual health advisory team for advice.

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