There are many different types of HPV (Human Papilloma
Virus), these are also known as strains. Many different
medical journals are unsure about the exact number
of strains, some mention 60 or more, others mention
100 or more. This shows that there are many different
types of warts that can occur anywhere on the body.
Warts come in many different shapes and sizes, and
even colors, some warts can be easily mistaken for
other conditions, especially when it comes to warts
of the genitalia.
What is a Genital Wart?
Genital warts are an STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease),
and are the most common type of STD. However, genital
warts are not the only condition here; they are part
of the HPV virus. The virus remains in one's immune
system for some time, and every so often one will
get an outbreak or a wart on the skin. A wart can
surface anywhere on the skin, however, if one comes
into sexual contact with another person with genital
warts, then they will contract the HPV virus, and
will develop a wart in the genital region. HPV is
very complicated, and little is known about how or
when a wart will surface. The only known time period
of one developing a wart, after contracting the HPV
virus is between one month to several years. This
means it is very possible to have the virus dormant
in the immune system, for a long period of time.
Is HPV contagious?
Yes, HPV is very contagious, so contagious that one could pass the virus to another person without ever knowing having any symptoms or knowing that they have the virus.
Once HPV is contracted it will remain in the immune system.
What does a genital wart look like?
A genital wart can occur on or near the genitalia on both men and women. It can also occur in or around the anus. Women can also experience a wart inside the vagina or near the cervix. A genital wart can be described as cauliflower looking, however as mentioned previously, all warts come in many different shapes, sizes and colors, because there are so many different strains of HPV. Some warts can blend in with the skin and be difficult to see.
What are the symptoms of genital warts?
Genital wart symptoms can vary. Most people will be able to feel the wart on the surface of the skin, and the majority of the time the wart can be very irritated and itchy. Other symptoms may include uncomfortable or painful sexual intercourse and even vaginal or rectal bleeding. Warts can sometimes grow very quickly, especially during pregnancy. Genital warts can grow large enough to block the urethra opening in the vagina or penis.
How can I prevent genital warts and HPV?
The only complete protection from genital warts is abstinence, while this is obviously not achievable by almost the entire population, it is strongly recommended to use a latex condom. However, a condom will not cover the entire genital or anal region, so HPV can still be contracted.
Bibliography:
* www.hasslefreeclinic.org
