Is This Symptom a Sign of Genital Warts? - Urology

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Is this symptom cauliflower-like?


Hello doctor, I have had a fixed partner for about two years.
I have previously engaged in high-risk sexual behavior and have not been tested yet.
Although I have a steady partner, I still have unprotected sex.
About a year ago, while showering, I noticed a granular foreign object in that area and, feeling anxious, I immediately picked it off.
After some time, I found a similar granular foreign object in the same spot again; it doesn't hurt or itch, but it feels like there is something there.
I ended up picking it off twice while showering, which caused bleeding.
It has been about 3-4 months since I last picked it off, and recently I noticed that this foreign object looks very much like a wart.
I would like to ask the doctor if, based on the photos, it appears to be a wart.
Thank you.
Here is the photo link: https://imgur.com/a/NDYA3at.
Although going to the hospital is the quickest option, I am not yet prepared to get checked out, so I hope the doctor can provide some advice.
Thank you.

Xiǎng zhīdào dá'àn, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/04

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: In addition to a physician's examination, a pathological diagnosis can also be sent for more accurate assessment of cauliflower lesions.
Our facility cannot provide a diagnosis at this time; it is currently possible that it could be cauliflower (condyloma), or molluscum contagiosum.
It is recommended to consult a urologist at a hospital.
If that is not convenient, please practice safe sex.
If a diagnosis is confirmed, your sexual partner should also seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/04/04

More Info


Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area, and can sometimes resemble cauliflower, which aligns with your description of the lesions you have observed.
From your account, it seems that you have experienced recurring growths in the same area, which is characteristic of genital warts. The fact that these growths are painless and do not cause itching is also consistent with genital warts, as they often do not produce symptoms unless they become irritated or infected. The act of removing them, especially if they bleed, can lead to further irritation and potential complications, including secondary infections.

Given your history of unprotected sexual encounters, it is important to consider that HPV can be transmitted even when an infected person does not have visible warts. The virus can remain dormant in the body for years, and symptoms may not appear until much later. Therefore, it is crucial to get tested not only for HPV but also for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as they can often occur simultaneously.

While I understand your hesitation to visit a healthcare provider, it is essential to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend a biopsy if there is any uncertainty about the nature of the growths. They can also provide guidance on treatment options, which may include topical treatments, cryotherapy (freezing the warts), or surgical removal, depending on the size and number of warts.

In addition to treatment, discussing vaccination against HPV with your healthcare provider is advisable. The HPV vaccine can protect against the most common strains of the virus that cause genital warts and certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer.
In the meantime, it is important to avoid picking at the growths, as this can lead to bleeding and infection. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding sexual contact until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional is also recommended to prevent potential transmission of the virus to your partner.

In summary, while the symptoms you describe are suggestive of genital warts, a definitive diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare provider. I encourage you to schedule an appointment for a thorough evaluation and to discuss your concerns. Early intervention can help manage the condition effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

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