What is genital warts?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Genital warts are a common skin disease and a type of sexually transmitted disease. The primary mode of transmission for genital warts is through sexual contact. They can also be transmitted indirectly or from mother to child. Initially, genital warts manifest as small, moist, and soft papules. As the warts grow in size and number, they can develop into growths resembling a rooster's comb. It is crucial to treat genital warts promptly due to their high infectivity and recurrence rate, as they pose a serious risk to health.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Are common warts and genital warts the same?

Common warts and genital warts are different. Although both common warts and genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, they belong to different subtypes of the virus, and their routes of infection also vary. Common contact or touching objects contaminated with the virus that causes common warts can lead to infection, and the affected areas can be located throughout various parts of the body, including the external genitalia, genitals, and perianal area. Genital warts are primarily transmitted through sexual contact and are a sexually transmitted disease. This disease is generally spread through sexual intercourse, leading to cross-infection between partners. The most common locations for genital warts are the external genitalia, perianal area, and the mouth. Genital warts generally do not grow on normal skin. Once genital warts appear, the treatment period is longer, and the recurrence rate is higher. Common warts usually can be treated successfully with one or two conventional treatments.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How to treat the incubation period of genital warts?

Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted disease caused by the infection of the human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV. Generally, during the incubation period, which is when the HPV virus is present but genital or anal warts have not yet appeared, treatment can be quite troublesome as the warts are not visible and thus less likely to be detected or noticed. Treatment may include the oral intake of antiviral medications and immune-boosting drugs, enhancing physical exercise to boost immunity, avoiding public baths and swimming pools, sun-disinfecting underwear, and abstaining from sexual contact during this period to prevent cross-infection.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
1min 8sec home-news-image

Initial symptoms of genital warts in women

The initial symptoms of genital warts in women are usually some pale red, soft, and tiny papules which then gradually increase in size and number. These papules may merge with each other, with some overlapping, and the surface becomes rough, resembling cauliflower or cockscomb, or nipple-like formations. If the area is moist and warm or exposed to chronic irritation, the warts can grow more rapidly. Generally, genital warts in women, after being infiltrated by secretions, turn a dirty grey or red color and have a rather soft texture. The base of the genital warts usually has some stalk-like structures. Some genital warts may erode and exude fluid, which also makes them prone to secondary bacterial infections, leading to foul smells. Genital warts in women are primarily caused by the human papillomavirus infection, and the treatment typically involves the use of methods like carbon dioxide laser or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can genital warts be contagious during the incubation period?

Genital warts are caused by an HPV virus infection, commonly known as the human papillomavirus. This disease is highly contagious, with a very high chance of being infected through sexual contact. The incubation period varies from person to person, generally ranging from half a month to eight months, and it can be contagious during the incubation period. This is because the virus can adhere to the mucous membranes of the body and can be transmitted to others through sexual contact during the incubation period. Treatment during the incubation period primarily focuses on enhancing immunity and antiviral methods. Besides medication, regular exercise can help strengthen immunity. If warts are detected, it is important to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a regular hospital.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can genital warts heal on their own?

Genital warts are caused by a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is a sexually transmitted disease. This disease is generally more common among sexually active people. This condition does not heal on its own, which means it generally will not improve without proper treatment. If not treated, the condition can worsen and spread, primarily affecting the external genitalia or the area around the anus. The most common treatment involves the use of lasers to remove the warts, followed by antiviral medication. This disease has a high recurrence rate, so it is essential to persist with the treatment over the long term. Complete recovery is possible eventually. Additionally, it's important to exercise regularly to boost the immune system.