Genital Warts: Concerns and Treatment Options - Urology

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Questions about cauliflower?


Hello, doctor! Last October, I had unprotected sexual intercourse.
Recently, while showering, I noticed a small white soft bump under the glans that is not painful or itchy.
I was quite worried and went to see a urologist.
The urologist mentioned that it could possibly be genital warts, which left me stunned and embarrassed.
The bump is quite small, making it hard to assess, and the doctor only prescribed "Acyclovir cream" for me to apply.
He said if it doesn't go away by next week, I should come back for electrosurgery and also get some tests done.
However, I've heard that if the doctor lacks experience, they might accidentally damage the erectile tissue during the procedure, which is quite frightening, so I'm hesitant to go through with it.
Additionally, I feel embarrassed to discuss this with friends and find it humiliating to seek treatment outside.
Therefore, I looked online and found that "Wart Remover Gel" has good reviews.
Is it effective? I would also like to ask what aspects I should pay attention to, such as avoiding spicy food, staying up late, drinking alcohol, and exercising more?

Xiao Xiao Di, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/30

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, little brother: The electrosurgical knife can control depth, and I have not heard of it damaging the corpus cavernosum.
I'm not sure where you heard that.
If possible, could you provide me with the information? I could publish it in an academic journal, as it might be the first in the world.
The effectiveness of medications depends on individual constitution and response; some people have great results, while others do not.
Boosting immunity is the most fundamental requirement.
Therefore, you are correct that it is best to engage in regular exercise, at least 3-5 days a week, for at least 40-60 minutes each day.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Responses on the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical care at healthcare institutions.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/01/30

More Info


Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts can appear as small, soft, flesh-colored or white bumps in the genital area, including the penis, vulva, and around the anus. Your concern about the white, soft, painless growths you discovered is valid, especially considering your recent sexual history.
The first step in addressing genital warts is to confirm the diagnosis. While your urologist has suggested that the growths may be warts, it is essential to have a definitive diagnosis, which may involve a visual examination and possibly a biopsy if there is any uncertainty. The use of topical treatments like "杏輝美康乳膏" (which may contain imiquimod or other active ingredients) can help in treating the warts, but it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

If the warts do not resolve with topical treatment, your doctor may recommend other options such as cryotherapy (freezing the warts), electrosurgery (burning the warts), or laser therapy. Your concern about electrosurgery and potential complications, such as damage to surrounding tissues, is understandable. It is essential to choose a qualified and experienced healthcare provider for these procedures to minimize risks. If you feel uncomfortable with your current provider, seeking a second opinion from a different urologist or dermatologist who specializes in sexually transmitted infections may provide you with more confidence in your treatment plan.

Regarding your question about "汰疣凝," which is a topical treatment for warts, it is essential to note that while some over-the-counter treatments can be effective, they may not work for everyone, and their efficacy can vary. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially for conditions like genital warts.

In terms of lifestyle modifications, while there is no direct evidence that diet, alcohol consumption, or exercise can eliminate HPV or genital warts, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support your immune system. A robust immune system may help your body fight off the virus more effectively. Therefore, reducing alcohol intake, avoiding spicy foods if they cause discomfort, and engaging in regular physical activity can be beneficial for your overall health.

Additionally, practicing safe sex, including the use of condoms, can reduce the risk of transmitting HPV to partners, although it does not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by condoms. If you have multiple sexual partners or engage in high-risk sexual behavior, discussing HPV vaccination with your healthcare provider may also be a good preventive measure.

Lastly, it is crucial to address any feelings of embarrassment or shame associated with your condition. Genital warts are a common issue, and many individuals experience them at some point in their lives. Open communication with your healthcare provider can help alleviate concerns and ensure you receive the appropriate care. Remember, you are not alone, and seeking help is a positive step towards managing your health.

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