Could I Have Genital Warts Without Sexual Activity? Symptoms

I haven't had any sexual intercourse, but it seems like I have genital warts?

I have not engaged in any sexual activity, but recently I discovered two clusters of off-white protrusions on the inner side of my foreskin.
Initially, there were none on the glans, but today I noticed small red and white bumps on the glans and the coronal sulcus.
Could this be genital warts? If it is genital warts, can I still masturbate?

Ayu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/27

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

Without sexual activity or an identifiable source of infection, it is difficult to understand why one might develop common skin lesions resembling warts, which could be attributed to keratin abnormality leading to seborrheic keratosis.
These lesions appear skin-colored or light brown, are round and multiple, and consist of small white nodules resembling tiny beads, about the size of a pinhead.
They primarily result from cystic retention of keratin in the upper dermis; they may also be influenced by androgens during puberty, leading to sebaceous gland hyperplasia, ectopic sebaceous glands, or epidermal pigmentation.
However, seborrheic keratosis typically appears white, while sebaceous gland hyperplasia appears yellow, and usually, no treatment is necessary for seborrheic keratosis.
Some of these lesions may occur on the penis or directly on the papillae.
Additionally, there are small papules known as penile pearly papules.
This condition does not affect your health or physiological function, and if asymptomatic, no treatment is required.
Approximately 10% of males may develop penile pearly papules.
These small papules are arranged in rows (circumferentially) along the coronal sulcus of the penis, ranging from the size of a pinhead to that of a grain of millet, and are skin-colored or light pink.
They cannot be washed or scraped off, are painless and itch-free, and represent a benign skin condition.
The exact cause remains unclear; however, they do not impact the patient's overall health, urinary function, or sexual function, and they are not contagious.
The color of penile pearly papules can be pink, white, yellow, with transparent ones being less common.
Their size typically ranges from 1 to 2 millimeters in width and 1 to 4 millimeters in length, appearing as rounded papules arranged in single or double rows along the coronal sulcus of the penis.
They usually present without symptoms and are often discovered incidentally by the patient.
It is important to note that a simple description cannot determine the severity of the condition; therefore, if symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or urologist.
A physician often needs to perform a visual examination, palpation, and take a medical history to confirm the diagnosis, as pearly papules are not classified as a disease.
Urologists do not typically develop treatments specifically for pearly papules; thus, if treatment is being considered, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist.

Reply Date: 2015/07/27

More Info

Genital warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), are typically associated with sexual activity, but it is important to understand that HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, not just through penetrative sexual intercourse. Therefore, it is possible to develop genital warts even without engaging in sexual activity if there has been any form of intimate contact with an infected area.

The symptoms you describe—white, raised bumps on the inner foreskin and red and white spots on the glans and the coronal sulcus—could potentially be indicative of genital warts, but they could also represent other conditions, such as pearly penile papules, which are harmless and common, or other dermatological issues. It is crucial to have these symptoms evaluated by a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

If these bumps are indeed genital warts, it is generally safe to continue masturbating, as long as you are not experiencing pain or discomfort. However, it is advisable to avoid any sexual activity until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider. Engaging in sexual activity while having visible warts can increase the risk of transmitting the virus to a partner.

Here are some important points to consider regarding genital warts and HPV:
1. Transmission: HPV is highly contagious and can be transmitted through any skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. This means that even if you have not engaged in penetrative sex, you could still be at risk if you have had close contact with someone who has the virus.

2. Symptoms: Genital warts can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths, and they may cluster together to form a cauliflower-like appearance. They can be itchy or uncomfortable, but they are often painless. Other symptoms may include changes in the skin of the genital area, such as discoloration or texture changes.

3. Diagnosis: A healthcare provider can diagnose genital warts through a physical examination. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions. It is essential to seek medical advice to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

4. Treatment: While there is no cure for HPV, genital warts can be treated. Treatment options include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing the warts), laser treatment, or surgical removal. Your healthcare provider will recommend the best course of action based on the severity and extent of the warts.

5. Prevention: The HPV vaccine is effective in preventing the most common strains of the virus that cause genital warts and certain types of cancer. It is recommended for preteens and young adults, but it can be given at any age.

6. Emotional Impact: Discovering genital warts can be distressing, and it is normal to feel anxious or embarrassed. Remember that HPV is a common virus, and many people are affected by it. Seeking support from healthcare professionals can help you navigate your feelings and concerns.

In conclusion, while it is possible to have genital warts without sexual activity, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can provide guidance on managing your symptoms and any necessary precautions to take regarding sexual activity.

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