Have you heard of genital warts?

Let me give you a bit of information about it:

Genital warts are a term that is used when an individual has sexually transmitted infections that make small bumps grow around the genitals and rectum. These small bumps are called warts. There are various strains of genital warts, but the most common is the human papillomavirus. It is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect regions of the body that include the anus, rectum, penis and scrotum, vagina, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, but it presents, most commonly, in the vagina, (inside the vaginal walls, vaginal lips or around the vulva).

While some illnesses and common skin conditions may resemble warts, they may not be the same. Thus, it's crucial to see a nurse or physician if you believe you have genital warts.

Who is subject to genital warts risk?

Although warts can affect people of any gender, genital warts are more common in adolescents and young adults.

Furthermore, genital wart development will likely occur if:

1. An individual has sex without the use of dental dams or condoms
2. Possess several sexual partners

These variables increase the likelihood of coming into contact with the viruses that cause genital warts.

Prevalence of genital warts

Genital warts are thought to affect 400,000 people annually, with most of them being in their late teens and early 20s.

Nearly all occurrences of cervical cancer in women (about 50%) and anal cancer (approximately 90%) appear to be related to HPV infection. HPV type 16 is responsible for most of these cases (the fourth most frequent malignancy in women is cervical cancer). While vaginal cancer is connected with HPV infections, approximately 70% of the time (HPV Types 16 and 18)¹ HPV comes in a variety of forms. The two types of HPV that cause genital warts are HPV 6 and HPV 11.

Why is it important that I understand the long-term effect of genital warts?

It is crucial to bear in mind the long-term effects of genital warts because the human papilloma virus can stay longer in the body even after treatment causing the vaginal wart to recur. Having this understanding will help people to successfully manage and watch their health condition.

Although the HPV strains that cause genital warts are usually low-risk, it is important to be aware of the possibility of more serious side effects, such as certain malignancies associated with high-risk HPV strains, in order to take preventative action

Lastly, by being aware of the long-term hazards, people can make more informed decisions about medical treatment options, vaccinations, and sexual habits, which will ultimately help to reduce the condition's severity and spread.

What are the causes and warning signs?

Skin-to-skin contact during intercourse is how genital warts spread. Other types of warts on your body are caused by different strains of HPV. Genital warts are not contracted by touching yourself or someone else who has a wart on their hands or feet. It is transmitted through:

1. Sexual Intercourse
2. Genital touching through skin-to-skin contact without ejaculation.
3. Receiving oral intercourse from someone who carries HPV or has genital warts on their mouth, lips, or tongue

Even though genital warts are painless, very little, and many may not be easily recognized. It is important to be aware of the warning signs, which include little discomfort in the region, itching at the genitalia, burning sensation, and slight bleeding.

How can genital warts be diagnosed?

It is easy for the health professional to diagnose by observing the lesions and also by requesting a test through taking a sample of the affected area for biopsy. If the genital wart is internal, it can be very difficult for the health practitioner to give a clinical judgment.

Some of the common tests that the health professional will ask from you include the following:

1. Pap test: This test is performed by a skilled health provider who will carry out a pelvic examination for women to oversee the cervix for changes. A speculum is used to hold the vagina and a long handle cotton wool tool is used to collect the sample specimen from the cervix. Colposcopy can be used and specimens of the affected vagina area and cervix can be taken for biopsy
2. Examination of the anal region can also be done with the use of anoscope to examine if there are any warts
3. HPV tests can be done to rule out cervical cancer that occurs as a result of a few types of the virus. It is generally not effective for young girls and women because, in these cases,  HPV infection is likely to resolve without treatment

How can genital warts be treated medically?

In some cases, genital warts are self-limited when the individual presents strong immunity. Nevertheless, they can still grow bigger and multiply, and having them medically removed is the best option to avoid further spread.

The following methods to remove warts include the following;

1. Laser treatment: This is done by applying laser light to kill tiny blood vessels inside warts
2. Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP): a healthcare physician uses an electrically charged wire loop to remove warts
3. Topical creams. The chemicals in the cream can reduce blood flow to the area with warts, even though it can cause blisters around it. Health providers prefer to administer the cream in hospital settings within their reach

Medication

1. Imiquimod (Zyclara). With the use of this cream, your immunity can be boosted, but it is advisable not to use the cream on your skin when involved in a sexual activity, as it might cause irritation. Possible side effects can include skin rash, skin discoloration and slight body weakness³
2. Podophyllin (Podocon-25) and podofilox (Condylox). It can be applied by a nurse or a doctor on the skin while in the hospital or at home. While using it, be careful not to put it inside your vagina as it can cause irritation, sores and pain²
3. Trichloroacetic acid. It is applied to the affected area, helping to burn off the warts due to its chemical components. Its effect on the skin could be mild pain or irritation, therefore, it should be applied by the health provider to avoid further harm⁶
4. Sinecatechins (Veregen). This is also a cream that can be applied to remove genital warts. It is usually in the form of an ointment. It can cause itching or a burning sensation as a disadvantage⁴

Long-term effects of genital warts

1. Recurrence with low immunity: This explains why HPV usually lies dormant for a while, showing recurrences of genital warts. This low immunity often results in larger and multiple warts.
2. Mental distress: having genital warts can lead to anxiety, depression and feelings of embarrassment. Additionally, long-term effects can include shame from sharing the disclosed health condition with sexual partners
3. HPV-Related Cancers: Infection with high-risk strains, such as HPV types 16 and 18, can elevate the likelihood of developing cancers, including cervical, anal, penile, and throat cancers. Although genital warts do not directly cause cancer, their presence signals HPV exposure, emphasizing the need for regular health screenings

Prevention and reducing long-term risks of genital warts

1. Increased immunity health: To reduce the long-term risk of genital warts, it is important to boost immunity through a healthy diet, having good sleeping patterns and a healthy lifestyle⁵
2. Having a healthy safe sex practice: Practicing safe sex is crucial to reduce the risk of having HPV, and this can be achieved through the use of condoms or dental dams
3. Medical check-up and screening: regular check-ups such as pap smears and HPV testing can help to reduce complications that may arise

Summary

Genital warts are a common condition and have long-term effects; understanding the long-term effects will help prevent further complications and improve overall well-being. Even though most genital warts are caused by low-risk HPV strains, prevention through regular screening, safe sexual practices and vaccination can help reduce the risk of infection and its long-term impacts.