Urethral Warts: Risks and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor?

The situation is as follows: During a recent incident while urinating, my glans accidentally touched the toilet.
About five months later, I noticed a few bald spots near the glans.
I went to a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, and it was confirmed that I had genital warts.
The doctor prescribed me a powder and a topical solution, which were effective, and the warts improved.
However, recently I discovered a small, bald spot at the frenulum, resembling the tip of a needle (about one-tenth the size of a grain of rice) that feels slightly bald to the touch.
I'm unsure if this is a recurrence.
I would like to know, if it is just a small bald spot (the size of a needle tip), what is the risk of transmission if I engage in sexual activity?

Lü, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/22

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Cauliflower lesions are prone to recurrence.
Once they recur, it's important to address them quickly, but the duration of healing is uncertain.
It could take several years, and it varies for each individual.
Maintaining good health and a strong immune system is crucial.
Personally, I recommend electrosurgery for treatment, as I don't generally advise topical medications.
However, if topical solutions are effective for you, that is a different matter.

Reply Date: 2018/01/22

More Info

Urethral warts, commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), are a type of genital wart that can appear in various locations, including the urethra. The presence of these warts can be concerning, especially regarding potential transmission during sexual activity and the risk of recurrence.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that HPV is a sexually transmitted infection, and certain strains of the virus are responsible for the development of warts. If you have noticed new growths, such as the small bump you described, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. The fact that you previously had warts treated successfully does not guarantee that you are immune to future infections or recurrences, as HPV can remain dormant in the body and reactivate.

Regarding your concern about transmission during sexual activity, the risk of spreading HPV is present whenever there are warts, regardless of their size. Even if the wart is small, it can still harbor the virus and potentially infect a partner. HPV is typically transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, which means that any contact with the affected area can pose a risk. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid sexual activity until you have been evaluated and treated by a healthcare professional.

In terms of treatment options, there are several methods available for managing urethral warts. The treatment you received previously, which included topical medications, is one common approach. Other options may include cryotherapy (freezing the warts), electrosurgery (burning the warts), or laser therapy. The choice of treatment often depends on the size, location, and number of warts, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.

It's also worth noting that while treatment can remove visible warts, it does not eliminate the virus from your body. HPV can remain in a latent state, and warts may recur. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for any new growths and to discuss preventive measures, such as the HPV vaccine, which can protect against the most common strains of the virus that cause warts and certain types of cancer.

In summary, if you suspect that you have developed new urethral warts, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly. Avoid sexual activity until you have been evaluated, and discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider. Understanding the nature of HPV and its transmission can help you make informed decisions about your sexual health and relationships.

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How should I treat my mole?

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
The condition you mentioned, "痣瘡," could refer to either hemorrhoids or acne. If it is hemorrhoids, please consult a surgeon or a colorectal specialist for further examination. If it is acne, please seek treatment from a dermatologist.