Managing Genital Warts: Concerns and Treatment Options

Regarding the issue of genital warts?

Dear Dr.
Hsu,
I would like to ask what to do if I have genital warts.
I have been dealing with this since mid-August and it remains unresolved.
I am afraid of injections, so I am hesitant to undergo cauterization.
Can this condition cause difficulty urinating or an unusual odor? I am very worried, but I know that worrying doesn't help.
Dr.
Hsu, please give me some advice!

Xiao Fanqie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/15

Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Genital warts generally have limited effectiveness with medication treatment.
If there are symptoms such as difficulty urinating and foul odor, it may indicate that the condition is quite severe or that there are other complications.
Electrosurgery is not frightening at all; it is recommended to seek treatment at a hospital with anesthesiologists.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2000/11/15

More Info

Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), primarily types 6 and 11. These warts can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area, and they can be flat or raised. While they are generally not harmful, they can be a source of discomfort and concern for many individuals.

Understanding Genital Warts:
Genital warts are typically transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. It's important to note that HPV can be present even when warts are not visible, which means that someone can transmit the virus without knowing they are infected. The incubation period for genital warts can vary; they may appear weeks, months, or even years after exposure to the virus.

Symptoms and Concerns:
While genital warts themselves do not usually cause significant physical symptoms, some individuals may experience itching, discomfort, or bleeding, especially if the warts are irritated. In some cases, warts can lead to urinary issues if they obstruct the urethra, but this is less common. The presence of warts can also lead to psychological distress due to concerns about appearance, stigma, and potential transmission to partners.

Treatment Options:
There are several treatment options available for genital warts, and the choice of treatment often depends on the size, number, and location of the warts, as well as the patient's preferences and comfort level. Here are some common treatment methods:
1. Topical Treatments:
- Podophyllin resin: A physician-applied treatment that destroys wart tissue.

- Imiquimod (Aldara): A topical cream that boosts the immune response to help fight the virus.

- Sinecatechins (Veregen): An ointment derived from green tea extract that can help reduce warts.

2. Procedural Treatments:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, which can be effective but may cause discomfort.

- Electrosurgery: Using electrical currents to burn off the warts. This method may be concerning for those afraid of needles or pain.

- Laser treatment: A more advanced option that uses focused light to remove warts, typically reserved for larger or more resistant warts.

3. Surgical Removal: In some cases, warts may need to be surgically excised, especially if they are large or recurrent.

Managing Anxiety and Concerns:
It's understandable to feel anxious about genital warts and their treatment. If you are concerned about pain associated with treatments like electrosurgery, it may be helpful to discuss these fears with your healthcare provider. They can provide reassurance, discuss pain management options, and explore alternative treatments that may be less intimidating for you.

Prevention:
While treatment can help remove existing warts, it is also crucial to consider prevention strategies. The HPV vaccine (Gardasil) can protect against the most common strains of HPV that cause genital warts and certain types of cancer. It's recommended for preteens but can be given up to age 45.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing genital warts, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider who can guide you through the treatment options and help alleviate your concerns. Remember, you are not alone in this, and effective treatments are available to manage and resolve genital warts.

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