HomeHealth articlesvenereal wartsWhat Are Venereal Warts?

Venereal Warts - Skin Growths on Genitals

Verified dataVerified data
0

3 min read

Share

Venereal warts are growths that occur on the genitals and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav

Published At February 20, 2023
Reviewed AtJanuary 19, 2024

Introduction:

Venereal warts are skin-colored growth that appears on the mucous membranes of the human body. In most cases, these warts occur due to an infection with HPV (human papillomavirus), transmitted through sexual contact. However, although they can be considered sexually transmitted diseases, they usually do not lead to serious health problems. This article will answer all your questions regarding venereal warts, so read on to know more.

What are the Causes of Venereal Warts?

Venereal warts are caused by the Human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Although HPV is very common, only a few people develop venereal warts. Therefore, the risk of contracting the warts is very low, especially if the infected person has visible warts. This is because the warts are spread through contact with the infected skin. In most cases, warts appear due to a casual sexual encounter where the condom broke. However, there are several other ways to transmit HPV, such as oral sex, skin-to-skin contact, and contact with warts that are already beginning to heal. Warts can also be transmitted from one organ to another, such as from the genitals to the anus.

What are the Symptoms of Venereal Warts?

They are usually benign and do not cause symptoms but can be uncomfortable. Venereal warts are small and skin-colored growths that are usually painless. However, sometimes they also cause itching, irritation, or bleeding. In most cases, warts appear on the genitals, around the anus, or on the hands. They can also appear on the thighs or knees, although this is much less common. Venereal warts are usually easy to identify since they appear as fleshy and cauliflower-like bumps on your skin.

In most cases, they appear on the sex organs of both males and females and the thighs and buttocks. In some cases, they can also appear on the hands and feet. They can be small or large, and they may occur in clusters.

What are the Risk factors of Venereal Warts?

There are several risk factors associated with venereal warts, including

HPV Infection:

HPV is a virus that can cause warts to form on the skin. If you are infected with HPV, you are at risk for developing venereal warts.

Sexual Activity:

Engaging in sexual activity puts you at risk for HPV infection. Venereal warts are more when you have multiple sexual partners.

Weak Immune system:

If your immune system is not functioning properly, you are at greater risk for HPV infection and the development of venereal warts.

If you are concerned that you may be at risk for venereal warts, it is important to see your healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.

What are the Complications of Venereal Warts?

There are several potential complications associated with venereal warts, as they are a type of sexually transmitted infection. First, warts can grow and spread untreated, causing pain and discomfort. Sometimes, warts block the vagina or anus, making sexual intercourse or childbirth difficult. Finally, in rare cases, venereal warts can lead to cervix cancer.

How to Prevent Venereal Warts?

Some of the things to prevent venereal warts are

  • Practice safe sex by using condoms. This will help to reduce your risk of exposure to the HPV virus.

  • Avoid sexual contact with someone who has warts. If you know someone who has warts, ask them to refrain from sexual activity until the warts are gone.

  • Finally, get vaccinated against HPV. Both men and women can get vaccinated with the HPV vaccine, which helps protect you from the virus.

How to Diagnose Venereal Warts?

There are various ways to diagnose venereal warts, which include a pelvic exam, blood tests, an anal exam, and a biopsy.

  • A pelvic exam is usually the first step in diagnosing this condition, as it can help to identify any warts that may be present in the genital area.

  • Blood tests may also be ordered to check for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the virus that causes venereal warts.

  • An anal exam may also be performed to check for warts in and around the anus.

  • A biopsy may also be ordered to confirm the diagnosis, which involves taking a small tissue sample from a wart for examination under a microscope.

What is the Treatment for Venereal Warts?

The best treatment for venereal warts can vary depending on the size, location, and several warts.

However, some common treatments for venereal warts include

  • Cryotherapy (freezing warts with liquid nitrogen).

  • Electrocautery (burning warts with an electric current).

  • Laser surgery.

Your doctor will prescribe an antiviral medication to help eliminate warts. Sometimes, warts may also be treated with topical medications or injections. If you have contracted venereal warts because your sexual partner has them, then you should inform your doctor. You will be treated with the appropriate medication to prevent warts from spreading to your sexual partners. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you suspect you are exposed to the virus. . Genital warts can be treated, but the virus can stay in your system and be passed on to others. The cure for the virus is nil, so you will always be a carrier once you have it.

Conclusion:

Venereal warts are a skin condition you must not take lightly. If you suspect that you have a venereal wart, then you must visit your doctor. In most cases, the warts are caused by an infection with the HPV virus, which can be treated with a vaccine. However, to prevent getting venereal warts, one must use a barrier method of protection every time you have sex.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

How to Define Venereal Warts?

Venereal warts, also known as genital warts, are a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts typically appear as small, flesh-colored, or gray growths on or around the genital and anal areas.

2.

Is It Possible for Venereal Warts to Resolve on Their Own?

Yes, venereal warts can sometimes go away independently, but the timeframe varies. It is essential to seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment options.

3.

Are Venereal Warts and HPV Interchangeable Terms?

Venereal warts and HPV are related but not interchangeable terms. Venereal warts are the visible growths that result from an HPV infection, specifically affecting the genital and anal areas. HPV (human papillomavirus) is a broader term encompassing various viral types, including those that cause genital warts, as well as high-risk types associated with cancer.

4.

What Are the Potential Consequences of Leaving Venereal Warts Untreated?

Untreated venereal warts can lead to the following consequences. 
- Growth
- Spreading
- Discomfort
- Cancer

5.

How to Describe the Appearance of Venereal Warts?

Venereal warts, also known as genital warts, have a distinctive appearance. They typically manifest as small, flesh-colored, or grayish growths or lumps in the genital and anal areas. These warts can vary in size and shape, ranging from tiny, flat, or raised bumps to larger, cauliflower-like clusters.

6.

Where Can Venereal Warts Typically Manifest on the Body?

Venereal warts can appear on the following body parts:
- Penis
- Scrotum
- Vulva
- Cervix
- Anus
- Non-sexual areas like thighs or groin

7.

Do Venereal Warts Pose a Risk of Developing into Cancer?

Yes, venereal warts, which are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), can pose a risk of developing into cancer. However, it's important to note that not all cases of venereal warts lead to cancer, and the risk varies depending on the specific HPV strains involved.

8.

Can Venereal Warts Be Transmitted from One Person to Another?

Yes, venereal warts, also known as genital warts, can be transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact. Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and the virus is highly contagious.

9.

Do Venereal Warts Cause Discomfort or Pain?

Yes, venereal warts, also known as genital warts, can sometimes cause discomfort or pain, although they are often painless. The extent of discomfort or pain can vary from person to person and depends on factors like the size, location, and number of warts.

10.

Is There a Correlation Between Warts and Stress?

Stress can have an impact on the immune system, and a weakened immune system may make it more challenging for the body to combat viral infections like those caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to warts, including genital warts.

11.

What Color Are Venereal Warts Usually?

Venereal warts, also known as genital warts, are typically flesh-colored or grayish in appearance. However, their color can vary somewhat depending on factors such as an individual's skin tone and the stage of development.

12.

What Is the Average Duration of a Wart?

The duration of a wart can vary significantly from person to person and depends on factors such as the type of wart, its location, and an individual's immune response. On average, common warts, including those on the hands and fingers, can persist for several months to a couple of years before resolving on their own.

13.

Are Warts Linked to Any Specific Vitamin Deficiencies?

No, warts are generally not linked to specific vitamin deficiencies. Warts are caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), and their development is primarily related to viral infection and the body's immune response to the virus.

14.

What Measures Can Be Taken to Inhibit the Growth of Warts?

To inhibit wart growth, the following treatment options are available:
- Topical medications
- Cryotherapy
- Laser therapy
- Surgical removal

15.

What Natural Methods Can Be Used to Prevent Venereal Warts?

Natural methods, combined with medical interventions, can help prevent venereal warts, and these include the following:
- Safe sex practices
- Good hygiene
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Reducing risk factors such as multiple sexual partners.
- Medical guidance
Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav
Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav

Venereology

Tags:

venereal warts
Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Source Article ArrowMost popular articles

Do you have a question on

venereal warts

Ask a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy