Is It Genital Warts? Symptoms After Herpes Infection

Hello doctor!!! Is this cauliflower?

Hello, doctor! Three months ago, I accidentally had a sexual encounter and contracted herpes.
I subsequently underwent a complete set of STD blood tests (including HIV and syphilis).
The only positive result was for herpes, while all other STD screenings were negative (I had two blood tests: one a week after the encounter and the second two months later).
However, the doctor mentioned that genital warts cannot be detected through blood tests and can only be confirmed visually.
I am very concerned that I may have contracted genital warts during that encounter.
Recently, I noticed a growth on my genitals that is approximately 0.3 mm in size! (I am not sure if it was there before or if it developed after the encounter.) I have observed it for about two months now, and it has neither disappeared nor increased in size (I have been monitoring it closely, and there is only that one growth).
When I went to the hospital for an examination, the doctor said it looked somewhat like a wound but also like tissue overgrowth or a granulation tissue that has broken skin.
He said it does not resemble genital warts and advised me to keep observing it.
I would like to ask you, doctor, do you think this could be genital warts? Can you please take a look at this webpage? http://www.wretch.cc/album/saw70257025 The password is a702529.
Thank you!

Xiao Ling, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/10

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, the photo is not very clear.
However, there is a 90% chance it is not cauliflower-like lesions.
There is only about a 10% chance it could be cauliflower.
As for other sexually transmitted infections, it is generally recommended to have blood tests for HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis 3 to 6 months later.

Reply Date: 2012/09/10

More Info

When it comes to concerns about genital warts, especially after a herpes infection, it’s important to understand the nature of the symptoms and the potential implications of any new growths in the genital area. Genital warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray swellings in the genital area. They can be flat or raised and may occur singly or in clusters.
Given your situation, where you have had a herpes infection and are now noticing a growth that you describe as approximately 0.3mm, it’s understandable to be concerned about the possibility of genital warts. However, it’s crucial to note that not all growths in the genital area are warts. The fact that your healthcare provider mentioned it looks more like a wound or tissue growth rather than warts is a positive sign.
Genital warts typically do not appear as isolated small bumps; they often cluster and can have a cauliflower-like appearance. If the growth you are observing has not changed in size or appearance over the past two months, it may not be typical of genital warts, which can grow and change more rapidly.
It’s also worth mentioning that while herpes is a viral infection that can cause sores, it does not cause genital warts. The presence of herpes does not increase the likelihood of developing warts, but it does indicate that you have been exposed to a different virus.
If you are still concerned about the growth, it’s advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a biopsy or other diagnostic tests to determine the nature of the growth. This is particularly important if there are any changes in the appearance of the growth, such as bleeding, itching, or if it becomes painful.
In terms of prevention, practicing safe sex is crucial. Using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HPV and herpes. Regular check-ups and open communication with sexual partners about STI status can also help manage risks.

Lastly, it’s important to maintain a healthy immune system, as a strong immune response can help keep viral infections like herpes in check and may also help in managing HPV infections. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and avoiding smoking.

In conclusion, while your concerns about genital warts are valid, the characteristics of the growth you described and the professional opinion of your healthcare provider suggest that it may not be warts. Continued observation and follow-up with your healthcare provider will be key in addressing your concerns and ensuring your sexual health is managed effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Herpes and HPV: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Care

About a month ago, I engaged in risky sexual behavior. During foreplay and oral sex, I did not use a condom, but I did use one during intercourse. Later, I noticed a rash on my glans that itched. About a week later, I sought medical attention, and the doctor suspected herpes, pre...

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Please seek medical attention for examination and treatment as soon as possible.

Understanding Recurrent Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Treatments, and New Vaccines

Hello Dr. Du, Last March, I had unprotected sexual intercourse, and two weeks later, I developed symptoms. Initially, I experienced itching, followed by redness, swelling, ulcers, and crusting, which lasted about a week before I recovered. I went to the urology department for a...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Regarding your skin changes being considered as herpes, please note the following: 1) It may not be herpes. 2) Frequent recurrences indicate that your immune system may be weakened and the virus is active. 3) You should seek medical attention and get checked for any other ...

Understanding Post-Herpes Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor: Last month, I experienced frequent urination and difficulty with painful urination, so I went to a urologist for a urine test, and the doctor said there were no abnormalities. A few days later, I caught a cold, and then I developed herpes on the left side of my butt...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, it is recommended to seek medical attention. A blood test can be done to determine which type of herpes infection is present. If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further. Answers found online should only be used as a ref...

Understanding Genital Herpes: Symptoms, Recovery, and Management Tips

Hello Doctor, last week I had a cold and my immune system was weakened. One day after taking a shower, I noticed two or three small clusters of blisters on the glans of my genitalia. They are not painful or itchy. On June 11th, I visited a doctor who diagnosed it as herpes, and I...

Dr. Liu Mingyue reply Urology
Hello: It is essential to keep herpes lesions clean and dry. Blisters may burst, which can lead to skin inflammation, so it's important to monitor the area. If it becomes red, it may indicate inflammation; however, if it appears white, it may not necessarily be inflamed and ...