Genital Warts Treatments

Genital Warts

Genital warts (condyloma acuta) are gray colored or flesh colored growths that appear in the genital area after infection with the HPV (human papillomavirus). Symptoms of genital warts may appear and disappear over weeks, months or years. Some people who contract the human papillomavirus never show symptoms of genital warts, but are still infected and can still spread the virus to their partners. Genital warts usually are extremely contagious, especially when they are present on the genitals. Sexual contact while infected with HPV can spread the virus to your partner with one sexual encounter.

Genital Warts Causes

HPV causes the manifestation of genital warts. There are hundreds of types of HPV, but the main strains causing genital warts are HPV-6 and HPV-11. HPV resides as a virus under the skin in the nerve cells. When the virus is triggered, it manifests as wart like fleshy growths on and around the genital area. This manifestation is a result of the virus replicating, and is when it is most contagious. Intercourse or sexual activity (including oral activity) can lead to the spread of the virus, particularly if there are any open wounds or abrasions present where the virus can be transferred directly under the skin’s surface. Using birth control methods does not guarantee you will not spread the HPV virus to your partner.

Genital Warts Symptoms

Genital warts appear as fleshy growths on or around the genitals. They are usually painless, and may sometimes become itchy. They may appear as one or two warts anywhere on the penile shaft, urethra opening, rectal area, vaginal opening and the labia. It is common for multiple warts to emerge, or multiple groups; for example a group on the penis and another separate group in the rectal area. Some warning symptoms of genital warts include:

•    small fleshy or gray growths in the genital or rectal area
•    itchy growths on and around the genitals
•    involuntary discharge
•    wart like growths on your partners genitals or rectal area

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is very important to see your physician or gynaecologist immediately. Your doctor can provide a variety of tests including visual examination, Pap smear, acetowhitening or a biopsy.

Genital Warts Treatment and Prevention

There are many treatment methods for genital warts which require you to use harsh chemicals. Although some can be effective, many people choose to use natural treatments for genital warts for their overall safety. The best genital treatment is prevention, so we have listed a variety of prevention and treatment methods below. Keep in mind that the HPV virus itself needs to be treated to eliminate or cure genital warts.

•    Abstinence: Abstain from sex with a partner if they have not been tested for STD’s or if you believe they may show symptoms of genital warts.

•    Contraceptives are not 100% effective against HPV, however using them can decrease the chance of spreading HPV and genital warts.

•    Tea Tree Oil: Can be used to help eliminate itching and help the warts subside.

•    Vitamin E: Great for all skin conditions, Vitamin E can promote skin health and help heal the warts faster and make breakouts less frequent.

•    Crushed Garlic: Used in conjunction with Vitamin E, crushed garlic applied directly on the affected areas can cause genital warts to fall off within a week.

•    Sitz Bath: Sitting in a warm or hot bath for 10-15 minutes with simply water or with Epsom salts can help decrease the itchiness of genital warts.

•    Diet: Eat foods that are rich in beta-carotene and folic acid, while avoiding caffeine. Some foods rich in folic acid and beta carotene are: tomato, squash, mango and green, leafy vegetables like spinach, cabbage and kale.

See Your Doctor

Regardless if you have several outbreaks, minimal outbreaks or not outbreaks at all, if you think you may have genital warts, or have had sexual contact with some who may have HPV, always see your doctor immediately. Early testing can help you start preventative genital warts treatment, and ensure that you won’t spread the virus to a loved one or partner.