Understanding HPV and Genital Warts
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. There are many different types of HPV. Some types can cause genital warts, while other high-risk types can cause cancers, including cervical, anal, and throat cancer.
What are Genital Warts?
Genital warts are soft growths that appear on the genitals. They are caused by certain low-risk strains of HPV. They can be single or multiple, large or small, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower. In men, they can appear on the penis, scrotum, or around the anus.
While genital warts are not life-threatening, they can be cosmetically distressing and are highly contagious through skin-to-skin sexual contact.
Treatment for Genital Warts
The goal of treatment is to remove the visible warts. This does not cure the underlying HPV infection, and warts may return. Treatment options include:
- Topical Creams: Prescription creams can be applied at home over several weeks.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen.
- Electrocautery: Burning the warts off with an electrical current.
- Surgical Removal: Cutting the warts off.
Our specialists can recommend the most appropriate treatment for your specific case.
The HPV Vaccine: Prevention is Key
The most important tool we have against HPV is vaccination. The HPV vaccine (like Gardasil 9) is highly effective at preventing infection from the most common and dangerous strains of HPV, including those that cause most genital warts and HPV-related cancers.
The vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls, ideally before they become sexually active (as early as age 9-12). However, it is also approved and recommended for men up to age 26, and can be given to men up to age 45 after a discussion with their doctor. Even if you are already sexually active, the vaccine can still protect you from HPV types you have not yet been exposed to.
Protect Yourself and Your Partners
Whether you need treatment for existing warts or want to protect yourself with the HPV vaccine, our clinic can provide the necessary care and guidance.
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