Genital Warts, infectious lesions caused by HPV (human papillomaviruses). There are over 200 types of these viruses, with only a fraction causing infection in the anogenital region. Genital warts in the anogenital region are called condyloma. The HPV types that cause genital warts are most commonly transmitted through sexual intercourse.

Some studies have shown that up to 80% of sexually active individuals experience one or more anogenital HPV infections. Not everyone infected with the virus will develop warts, which means they may not even know they have HPV but can still transmit it. The likelihood of the disease recurring is approximately 30%.

The most important characteristic is that certain types of HPV in women can be associated with cervical cancer. Prolonged infection with HPV types capable of causing cancer is the cause of cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancers contain the DNA of one or more high-risk HPV types. Since there is a risk of HPV transmission to women without warts, every sexually active woman should undergo regular smear tests. Not every woman with HPV develops cervical cancer, but the risk increases significantly if left untreated for a long time.

GENITAL WARTS TREATMENT

The decision on treatment is based on the number, size, and extent of the lesions. Even when genital warts are treated, the HPV infection on the skin may persist. Studies have shown that HPV is completely cleared from the body on average within 2 years.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

– Cryotherapy (Liquid nitrogen therapy) is the most commonly preferred.
– Electrosurgery
– Laser therapy
– Acid treatments
– Various creams

VACCINE

HPV vaccines target the most important oncogenic types. The ideal time for HPV vaccination is before sexual activity, that is, before encountering HPV, but now it is also recommended for other age groups. This is because protection against oncogenic types is important for everyone. Consult your doctor without delay for genital wart diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, and vaccination.