Vaginal warts (also known as genital warts, vaginal warts, venereal warts and condylomata acumina-ta) are external symptoms of infection by the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is a family of viruses with more than 100 strains, the symptoms of which include cervical warts, anal warts, genital warts, vaginal warts common warts on hands, and plantar warts on feet.
The American Social Health Association reports the number of Americans with at leastone form of sexually transmitted hpv at more than 20 million, with approximately 5.5million new cases every year, making it the most prevalent and rapidly spreading sexually transmitted disease in the country.
It is important to note that many individuals infected with hpv do not have outward signs, and may not know they are infected. Results from a study conducted by the National Institute for Allergies and Infectious Diseases indicate that as many as 50% of women infected with HPV do not show outward symptoms and are unaware that they are infected. This is a considerable factor in the rapid spread of the virus, especially in the case of HPV infections resulting in cervical warts. Because the cervix is located inside the vaginal canal, cervical warts will not be visible, even in the midst of an out-break, the most infectious phase of the cycle.
When vaginal warts do appear, they can range in size from very tiny bumps to large,cauliflower-shaped growths. These warts may appear on the outer vagina or the cervix.
Venereal warts and vaginal warts are highly contagious and transmission most often results from direct contact, usually sexual in nature, with an infected individual. It is estimated that two thirds of people having sexual contact with infected individuals will develop venereal
warts within three months.
While common warts that appear on the hands and feet are forms of HPV, they are not the same strain of the HPV virus that causes vaginal warts. Contact with an individual intermittently affected by common warts will not result in venereal wart transmission, unless the individual also carries a venereal wart strain of the HPV virus.
Because HPV is not a systemic infection, that is, it exists only in the skin cells, there is no blood test to detect it. Medical personnel will typically identify a vaginal wart infection by visibly inspecting the suspected area or through the results of an annual PAP smear.
After the PAP smear, abnormal cells are identified under a magnifying glass and can verify or rule out an HPV infection. Terms used to describe abnormal cell growth include cervical dysplasia, precancerous cells. If abnormal cells are found, it is likely the doctor will perform a biopsy or colposcopy to further examine the effected areas and deter mine a course of treatment. Existence of cervical warts or precancerous cells does NOT automatically lead to cervical cancer. The cervix will be treated and will require regular monitoring as specified by the physician.
Vaginal warts are symptoms of a viral infection which may persist indefinitely in the tissues around the affected area. Treatments are intended to remove the warts so as to arrest the advancement of the virus, reduce the possibility of spreading the virus to others and eliminate any physical or psychological discomfort associated with the vaginal warts. Removal of warts, however, is not necessarily a cure. As long as the virus is present, vaginal warts may recur and require additional treatment.
Various treatments are currently recommended by physicians to remove vaginal
warts. wart treatment s include, but are not limited to, topical chemical solutions, topical anti-viral solutions, immunotherapy, cryotherapy (using liquid nitrogen), surgical removal, and electrosurgery.
Most people are very upset to discover they have contracted a sexually transmitted form of HPV. Gathering as much information about the virus as possible and seeking out support groups can be very helpful in coming to terms with the situation and moving forward to a happy, healthy life.
Abstaining from sex with individuals infected with warts or HPV is the best way to avoidcontracting the virus or passing it on to a sexual partner. Obviously this is not always practical advice. Since the infection is not always apparent, and because committed partners may decide the risk of passing HPV is outweighed by the benefits of initiating a sexual relationship, use of a condom or dental dam (female sexual barrier device) is recommended for any and all sexual activity. This precaution does not ensure safety from infection, as the virus may be present in skin surrounding the genitals, and there-fore not covered by the barrier.
Note: This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you suspect you have venereal warts, consult a physician.