Is Your Vaginal White Spotting a Sign of HPV Recurrence?

Cauliflower recurrence

Last January, I had my genital warts treated with electrocautery and received three vaccines.
Recently, I've noticed small white spots in my vagina that are increasing in number.
Could this be a recurrence of genital warts, or is it another sexually transmitted infection? Could it be flat warts?

Miss Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/20

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Let's examine it in person and then discuss.

Reply Date: 2016/02/20

More Info

When it comes to the appearance of white spots in the vaginal area, especially after a history of HPV (human papillomavirus) and treatment for genital warts (commonly referred to as "condyloma" or "warts"), it is essential to approach the situation with caution and seek professional medical advice.
Firstly, the recurrence of genital warts can happen, even after treatment. HPV is a virus that can remain dormant in the body, and while treatments such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or electrosurgery can effectively remove visible warts, they do not eliminate the virus itself. This means that the virus can reactivate and cause new warts to form. The appearance of new white spots or bumps in the vaginal area could potentially indicate a recurrence of HPV-related warts. However, it is also possible that these spots are due to other conditions, such as benign skin changes, irritation, or other infections.

In your case, since you have noticed an increase in the number of white spots, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough examination. A visual inspection by a qualified medical professional is necessary to determine the nature of these spots. They may also consider performing additional tests, such as a Pap smear or HPV typing, to assess the presence of the virus and rule out other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Regarding your question about whether these spots could be a sign of another STI, it is important to note that various conditions can cause similar symptoms. For example, conditions like molluscum contagiosum, herpes simplex virus (HSV), or even benign conditions like Fordyce spots can present as white or flesh-colored bumps. Each of these conditions has different implications for treatment and management.

Furthermore, you mentioned having received three HPV vaccinations. While the HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing certain strains of the virus, it does not cover all types of HPV. Therefore, it is still possible to contract or have a recurrence of strains not covered by the vaccine.

In summary, the appearance of new white spots in the vaginal area after a history of HPV and treatment for genital warts warrants a professional evaluation. It is essential to differentiate between a recurrence of HPV-related warts and other potential conditions. Do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for a thorough examination and appropriate management. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing HPV and any associated conditions effectively. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about any concerns or changes in your body is vital for your sexual health and overall well-being.

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