Genital Warts: Treatment, HPV, and Recovery Insights

Genital warts

Dear Dr.
Chang,
I was diagnosed with genital warts today and underwent electrosurgical treatment.
I would like to ask if the removal of the lesions means that I am cured, provided there is no recurrence? I understand that I may have contracted the HPV virus due to several instances of unprotected sexual intercourse with my ex-boyfriend nearly a year and a half ago.
Is it possible that the virus invaded my system during that time, and the lesions only appeared after the incubation period? Additionally, is boosting my immune system the only way to cure the HPV virus?
I know that treatment requires patience, and I will cooperate with my doctor.
However, I am feeling quite anxious and am unsure how to explain this to my current boyfriend.
I have consulted with my treating physician, who mentioned that there are currently no visible lesions, so even if I am infected, treatment may not be possible.
Are there any other options available, such as oral antiviral medications?
Thank you very much, Dr.
Chang, for taking the time to answer my questions.
I look forward to your response.

Cindy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/01

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the current treatment methods for genital warts include various options such as cryotherapy, electrosurgery, topical medications, or laser therapy.
These treatments only remove visible warts and do not completely eliminate the virus, so there is a possibility of recurrence.
It is important to follow the prescribed treatment or medication.
Generally, patients who receive appropriate treatment can effectively manage the sexually transmitted virus without causing serious harm to their bodies.
Patients can try the following methods to alleviate symptoms and avoid infecting sexual partners: 1.
Keep the genital area clean and dry.
2.
Avoid using scented soaps or bath oils to prevent irritation of the wart-affected areas.
3.
Condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, but if the infected area is located on other parts of the body, such as the scrotum, condoms may not provide protection.
4.
It is recommended for regular female partners to undergo cervical cancer screenings to mitigate severe complications.
5.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and boosting immunity, which can reduce the chances of recurrence.
6.
The prognosis for genital warts is generally good, but the recurrence rate is relatively high.
7.
There is currently a vaccine available for prevention, but it cannot be used for treatment.
8.
With combined treatment and healthy behaviors, there is a possibility for the virus to clear, which should be assessed by a physician.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2016/04/01

More Info

Understanding genital warts, particularly those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), involves recognizing the nature of the virus, its transmission, treatment options, and the importance of immune response in recovery.
Genital warts are a common manifestation of HPV, specifically types 6 and 11, which are considered low-risk strains. When diagnosed with genital warts, the primary goal of treatment is to remove the visible warts, which can be achieved through various methods, including cryotherapy, laser treatment, and electrosurgery, as you have experienced. It's important to note that while these treatments can effectively remove warts, they do not eliminate the HPV virus from the body.
After treatment, the absence of visible warts does not necessarily mean that the virus is gone. HPV can remain dormant in the body, and warts may recur, especially if the immune system is compromised. The immune system plays a crucial role in controlling HPV. A healthy immune response can often suppress the virus, leading to the spontaneous resolution of warts over time. Therefore, enhancing your immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management can be beneficial in managing HPV.

Regarding your concern about the potential transmission of HPV to your current partner, it is indeed possible that the virus was transmitted during previous sexual encounters. HPV can remain dormant for months or even years before symptoms appear, which means that you may have contracted the virus long before the warts became visible. It is essential to communicate openly with your partner about your diagnosis. While this conversation may be uncomfortable, honesty is crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship. You can explain that HPV is common and that many sexually active individuals may carry the virus without knowing it.

As for antiviral medications, there are currently no specific antiviral treatments available for HPV itself. Treatments focus on managing the symptoms and removing warts. However, some healthcare providers may recommend topical treatments like imiquimod or podofilox, which can help stimulate the immune response to fight the virus locally.
In terms of prevention, vaccination against HPV is highly recommended. The HPV vaccine can protect against the most common high-risk and low-risk strains of the virus, significantly reducing the risk of developing genital warts and cervical cancer. If you have not been vaccinated, discussing this option with your healthcare provider may be beneficial.

In summary, while the treatment of genital warts can lead to the removal of visible lesions, it does not cure the underlying HPV infection. The focus should be on enhancing your immune system, maintaining open communication with your partner, and considering vaccination for future protection. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your condition and manage any potential recurrences effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and support is available through healthcare professionals and support groups.

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