Update On Genital Warts

Genital warts (also known as ano-genital warts, Condyloma, Condylomata acuminate, or venereal warts) are highly contagious. They are transmitted during sexual intercourse and caused by some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) affecting both men and women. Genital warts do not appear until two to four weeks after contact and sometimes months may elapse before the warts become visible. They are usually painless but may itch or produce a burning sensation. Genital warts are not life-threatening, but they can have an emotional effect, causing people to feel uncomfortable in existing or new relationships.

They often occur in clusters appearing as soft, moist, pink, or flesh-coloured swellings that can spread into large masses in the genital area. They can be flat. In the early stage of development, they are not visible so that at this time transmission may occur without a partner being aware of the potential for transmission. Genital warts can develop in the mouth or throat of a person who has had oral sex.

Genital warts are the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection seen at genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics in the UK. It is estimated that as many as 6 million new cases of genital warts are diagnosed in the United States each year. The condition is becoming more prevalent.

They can occur at any age but the prevalence peaks at 20-24 years. If a toddler has genital warts, sexual abuse should be considered although one must bear in mind that the virus could have been acquired during childbirth.

Until the 19th century, genital warts were believed to be a form of syphilis or gonorrhoea but we now know that certain strains of HPV prove to be the culprits. Genital warts are highly contagious. You have a 60% chance of getting the infection with a single sexual contact. Other common types of HPV that cause warts on the hands and the soles of the feet do not cause genital warts. Rarely, the virus is transmitted from a mother to her baby during childbirth (vertical transmission). It is a popular myth that you can catch genital warts from a towel, doorknob, a toilet seat or the swimming pool. They can be caused by strains 6, 11, 30, 42, 43, 44, 45, 51, 52 and 54 of HPV; types 6 and 11 are responsible for 90% of genital warts cases. HPV types that tend to cause genital warts are not the same ones as those that cause cervical cancer (types 16 and 18). Genital warts are not usually passed on from warts affecting other parts of the body.

Genital warts are transmitted primarily by sexual intimacy, and the probability of infection increases in relation to the number of sexual partners. Smoking, oral contraceptives, multiple sex partners, and early coital age are risk factors for acquiring genital warts. Growth may be more rapid during pregnancy or when a person's immune system is weakened by diabetes, HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, Hodgkin's disease or taking anti-rejection drugs following an organ transplant. Smokers are more likely to develop genital warts than non-smokers.

Genital warts per se do not cause any serious long-term health problems. They are associated with cervical carcinoma as a woman can acquire multiple strains of HPV. Medical providers consider any case of genital warts to be a warning of potentially pre-malignant and malignant conditions. Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease and may, therefore, be accompanied by other sexually transmitted diseases.

No single treatment regimen for genital warts is better than another and no one treatment regimen is ideal for all cases. Two or more professional treatments are often required. Do not use over the counter cures for warts around the genitalia as severe irritation can occur. Genital warts can be treated by swabbing with the cell poison called podophyllotoxin. Pregnancy should be excluded before treatment commences. The area should be washed and dried before application. Warticon is applied at home twice daily for three days each week for four weeks. The skin should be washed one to four hours after application to reduce local irritation. Cryotherapy (freeze treatment), diathermy (heat) and laser are effective. Once an individual has been infected, the virus will be carried for life, even when the warts have been completely eradicated.

Most pregnant women, who have previously had genital warts, would be unlikely to have any complications or problems during pregnancy or childbirth. Unlike herpes, transmission of HPV to the baby occurs very rarely during childbirth so that genital warts are not an indication for caesarean-section unless they are so extensive that they restrict the birth canal. Some of the medications used to treat genital warts cannot be used during pregnancy, so it is important to tell your doctor if you could be pregnant.

If you have signs of genital warts, you should avoid sexual activity until the warts have been successfully treated. Condoms offer some protection against the virus, but they cannot completely prevent infection because the warts can be outside of the area protected by the condom. Spermicidal foams, creams, and jellies have not been proven to be protective. Women and men with more than one sexual partner, or if their partner has had more than one partner, should have regular examinations for sexually transmitted diseases, including genital warts. As with other sexually transmitted diseases, your partner must be treated as well, since an infected partner could easily transfer the virus back to you. Anyone with whom you've had sex should also be checked for genital warts.

The HPV vaccine, Gardasil, provides immunisation against the two strains of HPV that cause 70% of cervical cancer cases, and two strains of HPV that cause 90% of genital warts.

David Viniker MD FRCOG is a Consultant in OB/GYN.  Visit his websites which explain the pros and cons of the various options for women’s health, pregnancy and childbirth: www.2womenshealth.com    www.obstetric-health.com    

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HPV Symptoms. So have I got it?

There are over 100 strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and thirty of these can lead to other such problems if some has contracted it such as cervical cancer and genital warts.  Each year, more and more people are contracting a form of this virus and it is becoming a growing concern the world over.  However, not all cases of HPV have symptoms associated to them and in fact the HPV symptoms only will surface if another problem is present.

With respect to the HPV symptoms especially those associated with genital warts can vary.  However, if you find your self suffering from irritation caused by bumps or lesions in the genital area, then it is quite possible that you have genital warts.  However, it is best if you contact and arrange an appointment with your doctor or gynecologist so that they give the correct diagnosis.

However once it has been confirmed that you have in fact contracted genital warts it is time to consider what treatment options are available to you.  The best way of treating any form of genital warts is actually dependent on the patients attitude.  They can either be frozen, treated with chemicals, burnt off or surgically removed, but the choice is solely up to the patient and what they would feel most comfortable having performed on them.  Any person who contracts genital warts should also remember that they may have had them removed, they can lie dormant within their bodies and resurface at any time, but this does not always happen, in fact in some cases they have never returned.

The HPV symptoms which will surface if some is diagnosed with either cervical (the presence of abnormal cells) or any other form of cancer relating to the reproductive organs in the body will include vaginal bleeding, smelly discharge and a feeling of discomfort during sexual intercourse.   If you experience any of these symptoms then arrange to visit your doctor as soon as possible. 

However, one of the best ways of preventing a person contracting HPV is to be in a monogamous relationship, or if not then use condoms at all times.  Arrange regular pap (smear) tests.  But unfortunately for you men there is no way of screening you to see if you have got HPV.

There are over 100 strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and thirty of these can lead to other such problems if some has contracted it such as cervical cancer and genital warts.  Each year, more and more people are contracting a form of this virus and it is becoming a growing concern the world over.  However, not all cases of HPV have symptoms associated to them and in fact the HPV symptoms only will surface if another problem is present.

With respect to the HPV symptoms especially those associated with genital warts can vary.  However, if you find your self suffering from irritation caused by bumps or lesions in the genital area, then it is quite possible that you have genital warts.  However, it is best if you contact and arrange an appointment with your doctor or gynecologist so that they give the correct diagnosis.

However once it has been confirmed that you have in fact contracted genital warts it is time to consider what treatment options are available to you.  The best way of treating any form of genital warts is actually dependent on the patients attitude.  They can either be frozen, treated with chemicals, burnt off or surgically removed, but the choice is solely up to the patient and what they would feel most comfortable having performed on them.  Any person who contracts genital warts should also remember that they may have had them removed, they can lie dormant within their bodies and resurface at any time, but this does not always happen, in fact in so

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Male Genital Warts - The Complete Disease Story

Male Genital warts are one of the commonest types of sexually transmitted diseases. This condition is also called codylomata acuminata or venereal warts. The warts are transmitted by sexual contact with an infected person.

Genital warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus - HPV. This virus has also been linked to the development of genital cancers. The HPV infects the top layers of the skin. The virus is contagious and spreads through sexual contact with an infected person. Most people develop warts within three months of contact with an infected person. Unusually, some cases may not show symptoms for a long duration.

Having unprotected sex with many partners increases the chances of having male genital warts. The chances of getting genital warts also increase if you have had sex with someone who has a history of sexually transmitted disease, or whose sexual history you don't know. Becoming sexually active at a young age is also associated with greater risk of contracting the infection. If you have genital warts, or if your sexual partner has been diagnosed with warts, you should seek medical advice immediately.

As the name suggests, these warts are seen in the genital area. The condition is caused by a family of viruses which infect the soft, moist tissues of the genital areas. Male genital warts are most common on the tip or shaft of the penis. They may also extend to the scrotum and anus in some cases. Genital warts may sometimes be found in the throat or mouth also, if the person has had oral sexual contact with an infected person.

The warts are usually flesh colored. Male genital warts may be in the shape of bumps or cauliflower like growths in the genital areas and surrounding it. The warts may be present singly or in clusters in the affected areas.

Male genital warts usually show the following signs and symptoms. You may notice flesh colored or gray swellings in your genital area. The warts may be single and may develop into clusters if you don't seek treatment in time. Warts are usually associated with discomfort and itching in the genital area. You might notice bleeding during intercourse due to the erosion of wart tissue. The warts may also be too small to notice. In some cases male genital warts may not associated with any symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with male genital warts, it is best to consult a qualified practitioner regarding a proper form of treatment. The treatment you will be advised depends on factors like the size of the warts, if you have had warts before and whether your warts respond to locally applied creams. You may choose from creams like imiquimode or podofilox, which are locally applied. There are a few precautions you will have to take when you are on medication. You will also have to ask your partner to seek treatment if you have been diagnosed with genital warts.

If you have been advised surgery, you might be having large warts, or warts which are resistant to other forms of treatment. Treatment options in this case include electrocautery, cryosurgery, surgical excision or laser treatment. Remember that this condition recurs because the underlying virus is not easy to eliminate. You may have a relapse after you warts have gone.

Karl Dorads - About the Author:

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Established Expert Specialist . I also have been building a variety of websites for the last 7 years. Depth knowledge of medicine. Also, we have a doctor in our staff who helps me to write the articles. Karl Dorads - GenitalWartsSite.com For more information about Genital Warts Treatments visit Treatments

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What are the Causes of Human Papilloma Virus (hpv

Introduction

Genital warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), and resemble warts found on other parts of the body. Human papilloma virus (HPV) types 6,11,16,18 commonly cause anogenital infection, whereas types 1,2,3,4 and 10 cause skin warts. Warts usually appear 2 to 8 months after the infection has been acquired, but may take longer, even years, to appear. Asymptomatic infection is also common.

It is important to realise that many people can be infected with the genital wart virus but show no obvious lumpy warts.

Individuals infected with the virus, even without the lesions, can infect sexual partners. Some women have no evidence of genital wart virus, except on their Pap smear.

How is HPV Transmitted?

Although there are over 100 different strains of the virus, about 30 of them are considered to be sexually transmitted diseases,and are spread through sexual contact – most commonly vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Typically, the first symptom that an individual infected with HPV will experience is genital warts.

Herpes is contagious just prior to and during an outbreak. The most contagious period is when the cold sore (canker sore) orgenital herpes virus is replicating externally prior to an outbreak and during the outbreak when the lesions are filled with fluid.

It is almost impossible to contract the herpes virus from inanimate objects such as toilet seats. The cold sore and genital herpes viruses are spread through direct contact. The soft skin of the genitals, vagina and anus along with most surfaces of the moutharea are easy targets. Kissing, caressing and sexual contact with a person in the contagious stage will spread the disease.

Signs & Symptoms

·    Skin colored, pink or white lesions anywhere in the genital area

·    Lesions may by flat or raised and smooth or bumpy “cauliflower” appearance

·    HPV usually does not cause itching or burning

·    HPV can cause cell changes on a pap smear

·    Often there are no symptoms

Long Term Effects

Genital warts can be treated but not cured. The treatment can help make you feel better and can help take away the warts, but you will always have the virus. Having the virus can cause these problems:

·    You can pass it to others.

·    You have a higher chance of getting HIV (the virus that causes AIDS).

Treatment

Medications

Genital warts treatments that can be applied directly to your skin include:

·    Imiquimod (Aldara). This cream appears to boost your immune system's ability to fight genital warts. Avoid sexual contact while the cream is on your skin. It may weaken condoms and diaphragms and may irritate your partner's skin.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) - cervical cancer and genital warts

teenage girl HPV There are many (over 100) types of Human papillomavirus (HPV), around 40 of which are sexually acquired and can infect the genital tract. Certain genital HPV infections can cause cervical cancer, other cancers and genital warts. HPV types

associated with cancer are called oncogenic or 'high risk' types #58; 13 have been recognised by the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer.

james sameul - About the Author:

Read about first pregnancy symptoms directory Also Read about fast
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Ignorance of Cervical Cancer is No Excuse

The HPV virus info is plain. An estimated 80% occurrence of anal cancer is associated with those who have HPV. Other links of HPV with cancer are those of tongue and tonsil cancer, and non-melanoma skin cancers in those persons who have compromised immune systems. 200,000 infants and children are diagnosed with papillomatosis which is a respiratory infection linked to HPV types 6 and 11.

But the most devastating statistic is that HPV causes 100% of all the cervical cancers. HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33 and 35 are associated with cervical cancer. These high-risk viruses and are also linked to bladder, anus, and vulva cancer. 200,000 infants and children are diagnosed with papillomatosis, a respiratory infection linked with HPV types 6 and 11.

Although it is harder to diagnose the HPV virus in men as it is in females, males can also have HPV associated cancers as commonly as those found in women. Men contract the virus during sexual contact with an infected woman's vagina or anal area. Certain HPV viruses are known to have caused anal or penile cancers in men, although penile cancer is rare. Anal cancer rates connected with the HPV virus, as previously stated, are not rare at all.

Cervical dysplasia, while not cervical cancer, can indicate it's predecessor condition. Dysplasia most frequently goes through a regression over time, but can progress to invasive cervical cancer. Precisely why it regresses or progresses is unknown at this time. What is known is that women between the ages of 25 and 34 often have the regression, while women age fifty and older will progress to the invasive cancer of the cervix.

Prognosis for invasive cervical cancer depends on the disease's extent at time of diagnosis. Death rates for cervical cancer are high due; roughly 1/3 of women do not go for regular yearly Pap smears. Ignorance is no excuse to this virus.

Regular yearly Pap smears give women a better chance of diagnosing cervical cancer early enough to have a healthy outcome. Statistics tell us that up to 90% of cervical cancer deaths could have been avoided if earlier detection during Pap smears had occurred.

To learn about the cervical cancer stages and cell changes in HPV, visit http://www.Medopedia.com today.

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Male Genital Warts - The Complete Disease Story

Male Genital warts are one of the commonest types of sexually transmitted diseases. This condition is also called codylomata acuminata or venereal warts. The warts are transmitted by sexual contact with an infected person.

Genital warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus - HPV. This virus has also been linked to the development of genital cancers. The HPV infects the top layers of the skin. the virus is contagious and spreads through sexual contact with an infected person. Most people develop warts within three months of contact with an infected person. Unusually, some cases may not show symptoms for a long duration.

Having unprotected sex with many partners increses the chances of having male genital warts. The chances of getting genital warts also increase if you have had sex with someone who has a history of sexually transmitted disease, or whose sexual hitory you don't know. Becoming sexually active at a young age is also associated with greater risk of contracting the infection. If you have genital warts, or if your sexual partner has ben diagnosed with warts, you should seek medical advice immediately.

As the name suggests, these warts are seen in the genital area. The condition is caused by a family of viruses which infect the soft, moist tissues of the genital areas. Male genital warts are most common on the tip or shaft of the penis. They may also extend to the scrotum and anus in some cases. Genital warts may sometimes be found in the throat or mouth also, if the person has had oral sexual contact with an infected person.

The warts are usually flesh colored. Male genital warts may be in the shape of bumps or cauliflower like growths in the genital areas and surrounding it. The warts may be present singly or in clusters in the affected areas.

Male genital warts usually show the following signs and symptoms. You may notice flesh colored or gray swellings in your genital area. The warts may be single and may develop into clusters if you don't seek treatment in time. Warts are usually associated with discomfort and itching in the genital area. You might notice bleeding during intercourse due to the erosion of wart tissue. The warts may also be too small to notice. In some cases male genital warts may not associated with any symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with male genital warts, it is best to consult a qualified practitioner regarding a proper form of treatment. The treatment you will be advised depends on factors like the size of the warts, if you have had warts before and whether your warts respond to locally applied creams. You may choose from creams like imiquimode or podofilox, which are locally applied. There are a few precautions you will have to take when you are on medication. You will also have to ask your partner to seek treatment if you have been diagnosed with genital warts.

If you have been advised surgery, you might be having large warts, or warts which are resistant to other forms of treatment. Treatment options in this case include electrocautery, cryosurgery, surgical excision or laser treatment. Remember that this condition recurs because the underlying virus is not easy to eliminate. You may have a relapse after you warts have gone.

Karl Dorads - GenitalWartsSite.com

For more information about Genital Warts Treatments visit Treatments

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What Do Genital Warts Look Like?

Genital Warts are most common sexually transmitted infection. The infection is also called condyloma acuminata or venereal warts. The condition can be prevented only by using barrier contraception while having intercourse. If you doubt you are suffering from genital warts or have had a sexual relationship with someone who has been recently diagnosed with genital warts, the following information might help you.

Genital warts are caused by a virus called the Human Papilloma Virus. This is an extremely contagious virus and is transmitted by sexual contact of any nature. The condition usually manifests as warts or bumps. The virus favors the moist genital tissue. It infects the topmost layers of the genital region. The infection causes the cells there to proliferate abnormally causing warts to form.

As mentioned above, genital warts are usually seen in and around the genital area. In men it is common to find them on the tip and the shaft of the penis. The warts may also spread to the scrotum and the anus. In women, the warts are usually seen on the external genitalia also called the vulva, the vagina and in the area between the between the vulva and vagina. The warts may also appear in the mouth and throat of persons who have engaged in oral sexual contact with an infected person.

The warts are flesh or grey in color. They may be single. in some cases genital warts look like cauliflower shaped masses. The size of the warts is around one millimeter. Occasionally the warts may be very big in size. The warts are seen as flesh colored lumps. In some cases they may have a bump like appearance and may also be colored gray. The warts are also associated with irritation or itching in the genital area. You might also bleed while having intercourse. this is because of the erosion of the wart tissue. In some cases the warts may even be asymptomatic. if you are infected and have become pregnant, latent infection may flare up due to pregnancy. Pregnancy also tends to worsen an infection that is already existing.

Genital warts look like bumps in some cases. This does not mean you ignore them. the Human Papilloma Virus has shown to be a cause of cancer. This is especially true for women, where the virus has shown an association with cervical cancer. if you are pregnant and due for delivery, it is very important to seek treatment. The genital warts look harmless, but may transmit infection to your baby during her or his passage through the birth canal. This can have serious complications in the long run.

If you do not know what genital warts look like, you might still want to go to a qualified medical practitioner if your partner has been diagnosed with the infection. Always use protection when you are having intercourse with a person whose sexual history you don't know. You might not know the person's history of sexual disease, in this case it is very important to use precautions. You can also ask your health care provider for information on what genital warts look like. This will help you and your partner.

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Genital Warts Can Be Transmitted by Hands Also

Genital Warts are the most common sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by a virus called the Human Papilloma Virus also called HPV. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted by sexual contact. Due to its nature, the virus can also be transmitted by unclean hands. This makes you very vulnerable to the infection if you have sexual contact with people in the high risk category.

You have a higher risk of contracting genital warts , if you have sexual relations with a person's whose sexual history you don't know. The risk is also higher if you do not know whether the person has had a sexually transmitted disease or if your partner is also unaware of the same. Another risk factor is having multiple sexual partners. Becoming sexually active at a younger age also increases the risk of contracting genital warts significantly.

Genital warts may not even have symptoms. After sexual contact with an infected person, the condition takes around 3 months to start showing symptoms. The infection may remain dormant for a long time, flaring up only during conditions like pregnancy. You must get yourself tested if you have any of the risk factors mentioned above or if your sexual partner has been diagnosed with the infection.

Symptoms of genital warts usually include warts in the genital area. These may be fleshy masses or grey colored bumps. If transmission occurs by hands the warts may be present in the areas surrounding the genitals as well. They may also be present on the mouth and in the throat. The warts are usually seen on the tip and shaft of the penis in males. They might extend to the scrotum and the anus also. In females, the warts are seen on the external genitalia, in the vagina and the area between the vulva and anus.

The warts are usually accompanied by itching and irritation of the moist genital skin. They may also bleed during sexual intercourse due to erosion of the wart tissue. If you are pregnant, you must get checked for genital warts as this may have an adverse effect on your baby. The warts can be treated but not completely cured. this is because the virus which causes the warts infects the upper layers of the genital skin and it is hard to eliminate the virus from there.

The treatment for genital warts must be done under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner only. Do not attempt to use over the counter medication which can lead to more irritation of the sensitive genital areas. You can use locally active creams for this purpose. the creams have to be applied to the warts and will make the warts slough off leaving healing skin in its place. The use of such creams needs some precautions and you must consult your health care provider for the treatment that is best for you.

In case you are pregnant, or have large, stubborn warts which do not respond to treatment, you might be advised to go in for surgery. there are many surgical options for genital warts. These include cryotherapy, surgical excision and laser surgery.

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How Can I Prevent HPV Contamination?

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes genital warts. Unfortunately, HPV contamination is very common. In fact, HPV infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted disease these days. More than a million Americans are diagnosed with HPV infection every year.

HPV is a microscopic virus that can often cause skin lesions and infections. These lesions in the form of warts usually grow in the genital or anal area. However, they can also develop on your lips or anywhere in your mouth.

Genital warts often appear as small and individual warts, but they can also accumulate and form large clusters of warts. These clusters usually have a very fleshy and cauliflower-like look.

In its most basic state, the genital warts may be too small that they tend to be unnoticeable. In some cases, they are not externally visible. When genital warts appear in the internal part of the genital and the anal area, the patient can only tell that he has the infection if the warts will be painful and itchy.

Once a person gets infected with the HPV, symptoms do not appear right away. Most of the time, it takes three weeks for the virus to incubate and show preliminary signs. In some cases, the incubation period may take months and even years. However, only one percent of those who are infected with the HPV develop signs and symptoms. This is probably why people may not be aware that they are actually HPV infected. In effect, some people may be spreading the virus to their sexual partners without even knowing that they are doing so.

A person with the HPV infection can easily spread the disease by having any form of sexual contact with another person. If you are sexually active, you can easily get infected. That is why you must take extreme precautionary measures. Below are some ways to prevent HPV contamination.

a. The best way to avoid HPV infection is to avoid having sex.

Abstinence ensures that you will not be infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases such as genital herpes and syphilis. However, if you opt to engage in a sexual intercourse, make sure that you practice safe sex.

b. Before you engage in sexual intercourse, make sure that your partner is safe.

Before starting a sexual relationship, you should be aware of your partner's sexual background. Determine if he or she is highly at risk for having the infection based on his/her previous and present sexual relationships. Keep in mind that your partner may be HPV infected without being aware of it.

c. If you have a sexually transmitted infection, you should not have sex. Having one infection enhances your risks of getting another.

d. Never have sex with someone who has the signs and symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease.

e. Avoid having multiple sex partners. Having more than one sex partner significantly heightens your risk for getting the HPV infection.

f. When you have sex with someone who might be at risk for having an HPV infection, use condoms.

However, keep in mind that while condoms may decrease your risk for HPV transmission, they cannot provide you with full protection. Skin contact in the genital area may promote HPV contamination, especially if warts and lesions are visible in your partner's skin.

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Tackling The Hpv And Genital Warts Challenge

You can catch genital Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) through being sexually active with an infected person.

It is the most common sexually transmitted disease and can cause genital warts to develop in both men and women.

There are over 40 types of HPV which can affect the skin and mucous membranes around the genital area. Infection is possible in the cervix, anus and rectum, on the penis and in the lining of the vagina.

Statistics show, for example, that in the USA over 20 million people are infected with genital HPV, and over half of sexually active people are at some time likely be infected.

It is also significant that it can be passed by skin to skin contact of the genital area and so does not necessarily require penetrative sex for infection.

Of significant concern is that sometimes genital HPV shows no symptoms which means an infected person may not even realise they have a problem.

This can have very serious consequences for someone who has the higher risk type HPV because they can develop into cervical and other cancers.

What are the symptoms of infection?

A person infected with lower risk Human Papilloma Virus may develop genital warts around the groin, scrotum or penis in men or around or in the vagina, on the cervix or vulva in women.

The majority of these warts are caused by two types of HPV, types 6 and 11.

Sometimes a genital wart may be a small bump and can be either raised or simply flat, pink in colour and cauliflower shaped, and if you have sexual contact with an infected person the warts could develop from as little as a few weeks, a month or sometimes up to a number of years later.

Occasionally genital warts can cause bleeding from the urethra, a tube which carries urine, or the anus.

What should you do if you think you may be infected by HPV and have genital warts?

You should remember that while this type of HPV does not cause cancer, you do need to seek professional guidance from your medical practitioner. Either they can arrange for a practice nurse to examine you or refer you to a sexual health clinic.

Even if you or your partner can feel or see the warts, you need a doctor or nurse to carry out a thorough examination, when they will use a magnifying lens and possibly an internal examination of the vagina or anus to make a proper diagnosis.

So how does HPV cause genital warts to develop?

What seems to happen is that the virus has an impact on normal, healthy cells through a mechanism that makes their growth abnormal. This may show up as genital warts or just remain unseen.

Over time your immune system may win the battle and defeat the virus. In some people where their immune system is weaker, they may not be able to remove the HPV and the genital warts may remain.

How can you prevent infection by HPV?

A growing number of government agencies have introduced vaccination programs which protect teenage girls from around 12 years of age.

There is further catch-up coverage for the 13-18 age group who may have missed the initial phases or did not get complete cover.

In addition to vaccination your next best option is to either avoid sexual activity altogether or limit yourself to sexual contact with one person in a long term committed relationship. And equally the key to reducing your risk profile for HPV-caused genital warts is to limit the number of sexual partners.

As well as vaccination, using condoms is an effective means towards reducing the risk of HPV infection and genital warts.

How to treat genital warts?

If the warts can be seen on examination you will likely be offered treatment to remove them. Successful treatment will depend on the strength of your immune system, and the size and type of wart.

Remember genital warts are not caused by bacteria but by a virus - the HPV - and so antibiotics will have no effect.

Your options include using a special cream applied to the infected area, a laser or heat treatment on the infected area, under local anaesthetic or freezing (cryotherapy).

Sometimes a combination of the above approaches may be used and you may feel some soreness for a few days after the treatment, but some pain killing drugs should help deal with this discomfort.

The best approach in these matters, however, is to see prevention of HPV and genital warts in the first place as a far better option than the need for a cure.

Mervyn Phillips - About the Author:

Mervyn Phillips is the editor and owner of Health Content Helper, a quality health articles writing service for internet marketing entrepreneurs in this sector. You can read more about writing for articles in health and wellness here. http://www.health-content-helper.com/how-it-works.html

Source:  http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/tackling-the-hpv-and-genital-warts-challenge-789350.html

HPV - the Human Papilloma Virus and Cervical Cancer

HPV is the abbreviation used for human papilloma virus. HPV causes the disease known as genital warts but it also causes cervical cancer. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world today.

There are many different types of HPV and not all types cause the wart like lesions to appear in the genital area. In fact most people who have this sexually transmitted disease do not know they have it.

Statistics suggest that up to 50% of sexually active adults will aquire HPV in their lifetime. A robust immune system will most likely be able to take care of the initial HPV infection so you may never even know that you had it. If you were infected with the type of HPV that causes genital warts you may see the wart like lesions around the genital area, including on the shaft of the penis and the anal area. Women with genital warts may not see any lesions at all if they are confined to the vagina.



The strains of HPV that cause genital warts are classed as low risk viruses whereas the strains that cause cervical cancer are classed as a "high risk".
The link between cervical cancer and sexual activity was first suspected when the observation was made (1841) that nuns were never diagnosed wtih cervical cancer. At the same time it was noted that cervical cancer was more common in women who were prostitutes. A link between pappilloma viruses and cancer was found in research on rabbits but it was not until the human papilloma virus was identified that the link to HPV and cervical cancer was made. This occurred in the late 1970's.

Both the Canadian and American Cancer Society lists other risk factor for cervical cancer as long term exposure to female hormones such as those found in birth control pills, smoking, HIV infection, exposure to certain hormones such as diethylstilbestrol (DES), and genetic factors.

Cervical Cancer


The cervix is the opening of the uterus. When infected with the high risk human papilloma virus strains these cells can become cancerous. Women over 30 are at more risk to develop cervical cancer suggesting that it takes some time for the cancerous changes to occur after the HPV infection. Not all women who are infected with the human papilloma virus will go on to develop cervical cancer.

In the United States cervical cancer is more prevalent among the Hispanic and Black populations who also have a higher mortality from the disease. In Canada higher rates of cervical cancer are seen among the older (ages 40-59), immigrant, aboriginal, and lower socio-economic populations. In both countries it is thought that rates are higher among these populations because of lack of screening, which results in detection at a much later stage of the disease.

The number of deaths from cervical cancer in the last 50 years has decreased dramatically because of the ability to diagnose the disease early with the Pap test. This test bears the name of its originator George Papanikolaou. It is a simple test that requires a sample of cells from the cervix. The tissue is sent to a laboratory for examination under a microspope. Cancerous changes can be detected very early this way and early diagnosis improves success rates for treatment.

Treatment

When diagnosed early enough cervical cancer can be treated by removing the cancerous cells. This may range from removal of cells confined to the cervix to a complete hysterectomy depending on how advanced the cancer is and whether or not it has spread to lymphatic tissue.

Prevention

You can lower your risk of developing cervical cancer by limiting the number of sexual contacts and knowing your partner's HPV status. If you are sexually active and not in a monogamous relationship you should use a barrier method of protection with every sexual encounter and undergo regular screening as part of your routine health examination. It is recommended that sexually active women should have a gynecological exam with a Pap smear every three years to age 69.

HPV vaccine

Vaccines have recently come on the market that provide protection from two strains of high risk HPV. Health officials are recommending all young women be vaccinated before they beome sexually active. The vaccine is provided free of charge to girls in most provinces in Canada. Many states in the US are attempting to pass legislation requiring the vaccine but to date only 3 have been successful in getting legislation passed.

Beverly OMalley - About the Author:

Beverly Hansen OMalley is a nurse who is passionate about health promotion. Visit www.registered-nurse-canada.com where Bev explores the uniqueness of the nursing profession in Canada including comparison of nurse salary across the country, preparation for the Canadian nursing entrance test and how to become a nurse in Canada if you graduated in another country.

Source:  http://www.articlesbase.com/cancer-articles/hpv-the-human-papilloma-virus-and-cervical-cancer-853146.html

Human HPV Virus Causes Genital Warts

The Human HPV virus is the cause of commonest sexually transmitted infection in the United States today. This is a family of around forty viruses which cause genital warts. The infection is also called condyloma acuminate and is transmitted very easily through the sexual route. If you or your sex partner has genital warts, you can understand the causes of the infection in this article.

The Hman Papilloma Virus, also called the Human HPV Virus shows great affinity to the genital skin. Around 130 HPV viruses have been identified as of now. The viruses share a common property of causing warts when they infect skin. Out of these viruses around 40 are transmitted through the sexual route. There are some viruses in this sub category which cause genital warts, the others tend to have latent infections which do not show any symptoms. The viruses are very easily transmitted. Medical studies have documented transmission of the virus through the sexual route, through oral sex and even by infected hands. This makes the virus a constant threat for you if you have any risk factors that increase the chances of getting infected.

For women , a Human HPV virus infection has many more consequences. The condition is usually latent and may flare up only during periods of hormonal changes. You might have a silent infection and only manifest symptoms during pregnancy. There is also a risk of really severe symptoms during pregnancy. During this time, there are higher chances of larger warts which are prone to bleeding copiously. If you do not get treated for human HPV Virus during pregnancy, there is also a chance that you might transmit it to your baby during childbirth. The baby may then have an infection which can cause breathing obstruction and feeding difficulties. Women also have another problem due to this infection. If you have been infected with particular strains of the virus, there are chances that you might develop cervical cancer down the line.

The best protection for women right now is a vaccine called Gardasil. The vaccine is effective against the two most common strains of the virus which lead to cancer. Getting vaccinated against the infection is a good idea if you have many partners or have had sexual relations with unknown people. If you are in your teens or twenties, this is a very cost effective way of preventing cancer. Another important part of cancer prevention due to Human HPV virus would be regular check ups. There is a check up called Pap smear which allows the doctor to analyze the cells in the cervical area. The Human HPV virus infection frequently causes changes in the structure and number of cells in the genital skin. The test will help the doctor pinpoint any focus of altered cell shape and structure. If these foci are removed, the chances of cancer will decrease dramatically. Preventing infection also means that you will have to take precautions while having sex. You must use a form of barrier contraception if you or your partner has any risk factors for the infection.

Karl Dorads - About the Author:

You can visit our website for more information about Genital warts and Genital Warts Treatments. We have a lot of articles about Genital Warts, Genital Wart Medication, Genital Wart Removal, Genital Wart Symptoms...

Source:  http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/human-hpv-virus-causes-genital-warts-545641.html

Human HPV Virus Causes Genital Warts

The Human HPV virus is the cause of commonest sexually transmitted infection in the United States today. This is a family of around forty viruses which cause genital warts. The infection is also called condyloma acuminate and is transmitted very easily through the sexual route. If you or your sex partner has genital warts, you can understand the causes of the infection in this article.

The Hman Papilloma Virus, also called the Human HPV Virus shows great affinity to the genital skin. Around 130 HPV viruses have been identified as of now. The viruses share a common property of causing warts when they infect skin. Out of these viruses around 40 are transmitted through the sexual route. There are some viruses in this sub category which cause genital warts, the others tend to have latent infections which do not show any symptoms. The viruses are very easily transmitted. Medical studies have documented transmission of the virus through the sexual route, through oral sex and even by infected hands. This makes the virus a constant threat for you if you have any risk factors that increase the chances of getting infected.

For women , a Human HPV virus infection has many more consequences. The condition is usually latent and may flare up only during periods of hormonal changes. You might have a silent infection and only manifest symptoms during pregnancy. There is also a risk of really severe symptoms during pregnancy. During this time, there are higher chances of larger warts which are prone to bleeding copiously. If you do not get treated for human HPV Virus during pregnancy, there is also a chance that you might transmit it to your baby during childbirth. The baby may then have an infection which can cause breathing obstruction and feeding difficulties. Women also have another problem due to this infection. If you have been infected with particular strains of the virus, there are chances that you might develop cervical cancer down the line.

The best protection for women right now is a vaccine called Gardasil. The vaccine is effective against the two most common strains of the virus which lead to cancer. Getting vaccinated against the infection is a good idea if you have many partners or have had sexual relations with unknown people. If you are in your teens or twenties, this is a very cost effective way of preventing cancer. Another important part of cancer prevention due to Human HPV virus would be regular check ups. There is a check up called Pap smear which allows the doctor to analyze the cells in the cervical area. The Human HPV virus infection frequently causes changes in the structure and number of cells in the genital skin. The test will help the doctor pinpoint any focus of altered cell shape and structure. If these foci are removed, the chances of cancer will decrease dramatically. Preventing infection also means that you will have to take precautions while having sex. You must use a form of barrier contraception if you or your partner has any risk factors for the infection.

Karl Dorads - About the Author:

You can visit our website for more information about Genital warts and Genital Warts Treatments. We have a lot of articles about Genital Warts, Genital Wart Medication, Genital Wart Removal, Genital Wart Symptoms...

Source:  http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/human-hpv-virus-causes-genital-warts-545641.html