Genital Warts: Questions on Transmission, Treatment, and Pregnancy - Urology

Share to:

Questions related to cauliflower?


Doctor, I have a few questions:
1.
My partner was diagnosed with genital warts a few months ago, and I am concerned about the possibility of transmission.
Where can I go to determine if I have contracted genital warts?
2.
What is the typical treatment duration for genital warts?
3.
After treatment, is there a chance of complete recovery?
4.
How can I assess my condition, and is it safe to engage in sexual activity again?
5.
If I also contract genital warts, is it still effective to get vaccinated?
6.
Is there still a possibility of having children without the risk of transmission?

la la la la, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/09

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello:
1.
My partner developed genital warts a few months ago, and I'm unsure if I could be infected.
Where can I go to determine if I have contracted genital warts? --> Generally, you should observe for any growths and seek medical attention.
If testing is done without visible lesions, the results may only serve as a reference.
2.
What is the typical treatment duration for genital warts? --> It varies for each individual and depends on the treatment method; recurrence is also possible.
3.
After treatment, is there a chance of complete recovery? --> Yes, it is possible.
4.
How can I determine this, and is it safe to engage in sexual activity again? --> Safe sex practices should be followed; otherwise, it is advisable to wait at least a few months and monitor the situation.
5.
If I also contract genital warts, is it too late to get vaccinated? --> The vaccine has no therapeutic effect once infected.
6.
Is there still a chance to have children without the risk of transmission? --> There may be opportunities to conceive without the risk of infection.

Reply Date: 2021/07/09

More Info


Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Understanding the transmission, treatment, and implications for pregnancy is crucial for managing this condition effectively. Here’s a detailed response to your questions:
1. Transmission and Diagnosis: Genital warts are primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. If your partner has been diagnosed with genital warts, there is a possibility that you could be infected as well. To determine if you have contracted the virus, you should consult a healthcare provider. They may perform a visual examination of the genital area or conduct a Pap smear for women, which can help identify any abnormal cells that may indicate HPV infection. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis.

2. Treatment Duration: The treatment for genital warts can vary depending on the method chosen and the extent of the warts. Common treatments include topical medications (such as imiquimod or podofilox), cryotherapy (freezing the warts), laser therapy, or surgical removal. The duration of treatment can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the response to the treatment and the number of warts present. It’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

3. Possibility of Cure: While treatment can effectively remove visible warts, it does not eliminate the HPV virus from the body. In many cases, the immune system can clear the virus over time, but this process can take months or even years. Therefore, while the warts may be treated and resolved, the virus can remain dormant in the body, and there is a possibility of recurrence.

4. Judging Resumption of Sexual Activity: It is generally advised to avoid sexual activity while undergoing treatment for genital warts and until the warts are completely resolved. Engaging in sexual activity during this time can increase the risk of transmitting the virus to your partner. After treatment, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider to determine when it is safe to resume sexual activity. They may recommend waiting until follow-up examinations confirm that the warts have been effectively treated.

5. Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can help prevent infection from certain strains of HPV that cause genital warts and other HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer. If you have already been exposed to HPV, the vaccine may not be effective against those specific strains. However, it can still provide protection against other strains of the virus. It’s advisable to discuss vaccination with your healthcare provider, who can guide you based on your individual circumstances.

6. Pregnancy Considerations: If you or your partner have genital warts, it is still possible to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy. However, it is essential to manage the condition effectively. The risk of transmitting HPV to the baby during delivery is low, but if warts are present in the genital area at the time of delivery, there is a small risk of the baby developing respiratory papillomatosis, a rare condition. It’s crucial to have open discussions with your obstetrician about your concerns and any necessary precautions.

In summary, if you suspect you may have genital warts or have been exposed to HPV, it is important to seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment options. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help manage the condition effectively and address any concerns regarding sexual health and pregnancy.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Genital Warts: Transmission, Risks, and Pregnancy Concerns

Hello Dr. Liu: My husband told me that he contracted genital warts (he has had sexual intercourse twice without a condom) two months after I gave birth. I also went to the gynecologist for an examination and was found to be infected. My husband denies having solicited a prostitut...


Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
1. It is possible, but most cases are transmitted through sexual contact. 2. Please have him visit a hospital to consult a urologist for arrangements. 3. No. 4. Genital warts do not affect pregnancy; however, if there is an active infection during delivery, the baby can be ...

[Read More] Understanding Genital Warts: Transmission, Risks, and Pregnancy Concerns


Managing Genital Warts During Pregnancy: Treatment Options and Concerns

I am currently 13 weeks pregnant and have been diagnosed with genital warts. Can treatment be done during this period? Will it heal after treatment? Is there a possibility of recurrence? If treatment is not possible but the warts continue to grow, will it have any impact? If I ha...


Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Hello Min: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections often manifest when your immune system is weakened. During pregnancy, the body's immune response changes, allowing the virus to reactivate. If warts appear at the vaginal opening, they must be treated, as there have been repor...

[Read More] Managing Genital Warts During Pregnancy: Treatment Options and Concerns


Understanding the Transmission Routes of Genital Warts: FAQs and Insights

Hello Doctor: Recently, I discovered a protrusion on the outer labia, and after examination, it was diagnosed as a genital wart infection. I am currently using a topical wart treatment cream. However, I am single (I had a partner three years ago and we had sexual relations). Rece...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the human papillomavirus (HPV) typically manifests several years after infection. It is recommended to consult a physician for diagnosis and to arrange for treatment and follow-up. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Zhang

[Read More] Understanding the Transmission Routes of Genital Warts: FAQs and Insights


Understanding Treatment and Safety of Genital Warts During Pregnancy

Hello Doctor, Four months ago (December 2015), my fiancée was diagnosed with genital warts. She received treatment with "Aldara" combined with electrosurgery and received two doses of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine. However, due to her pregnancy, the third dose was post...


Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
For questions one and two, please consult a gynecologist. To determine whether the granulation tissue is a condyloma acuminatum, a biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. The previous examination report is not available, possibly due to being in the latent period without ...

[Read More] Understanding Treatment and Safety of Genital Warts During Pregnancy


Related FAQ

Genital Warts Transmission

(Urology)

Genital Warts

(Urology)

Genital Warts Infection

(Urology)

Genital Warts Transmission

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Viral Warts

(Urology)

Genital Warts

(Dermatology)

Genital Warts

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Genital Warts

(Surgery)

Genital Warts

(Internal Medicine)

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

(Urology)