Vaginal warts are a strain of warts which can occur
on a woman's vagina and in her cervix. Warts are a
virus caused by the HPV virus which affects millions
of people. Although there are many strains of the
human papillomavirus, there are about thirty or so
which affect the genitals and anus. Vaginal
warts can grow on the vulva, anus and vagina and
are raised red bumps or cauliflower looking clusters.
Be aware that some vaginal warts may be too small
for the eye to notice.
How can Vaginal Warts be Caused?
Vaginal warts are a sexually transmitted disease. Those who have unprotected sex, or come into contact with a male or female who has vaginal warts, can catch this disease. Vaginal warts can also be spread from one person to another when that person is a carrier of this strain of HPV virus. In some cases, the carrier does not have warts themselves or show any signs of a vaginal wart infection in their lifetime.
Many women contract the virus from engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse involving the anus, mouth or genitals. Those women who have intercourse often with different partners, or engage in unprotected sex, are more at risk of catching the vaginal warts virus. Having intercourse with a man who has warts on his penis can also be a cause. Another reason for vaginal warts to occur in a woman is when she already has the human papillomavirus in her body but it has only recently surfaced.
Babies with Warts
It is very important that a woman who has vaginal warts has them treated before becoming pregnant. Vaginal warts are both in the vagina and in the vaginal canal on the cervix. Giving birth can cause warts on the throat and mouth of the new born baby. Women who have vaginal warts need to be aware that they are infected and can pass them down to their unborn children. Yearly pap smears can determine if there is a vaginal wart infection.
Conclusion: Education and Prevention
Keep in mind that millions of people have the HPV virus but not everyone will get warts. Like all warts, vaginal warts can have a long incubation period. Make sure to have protected sex and avoid multiple partners. Avoid intercourse with anyone who appears to have any kind of genital warts. Vaginal warts are mostly caused through irresponsible sex. It is important to undergo regular pap smears to ensure there is no possible wart infection. Cleanliness in the genital area will reduce the risk of contracting vaginal warts but those women who have aids or immune deficiency viruses are more likely to get vaginal warts or to have an infection arise from within the body due to its low immune system.
Resources
* http://familydoctor.org
