Genital Warts from Human Papillomavirus
The human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes genital warts , has become one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. So common that at least 80% of sexually active people acquire at least one HPV infection during their sexually active life; however, most HPV infections do not cause symptoms.
There are more than 100 known types of HPV, of which about 40 usually infect the genital area or anus and are transmitted mainly, if not exclusively, through sexual contact.
HPV types 6 and 11 cause 85 to 90% of genital warts .
For more information about HPV and genital warts visit the following article: What are genital warts?
The diagnosis of genital warts usually causes psychological problems that can affect the patient’s quality of life. At the end of this article you will find a section on psychological support.
Where on the body do genital warts appear?
Genital warts are commonly found on the parts of the body most subject to friction during sex:
- At the entrance to the vagina
- in the vulva
- Under the foreskin of the penis
- On the penis.
Also in:
- The cervix
- In the vagina
- inside the urethra
- In the perineum (skin between the vulva or scrotum and anus)
- In the anus, scrotum
- Mouth, tongue, pharynx
- Nose and eyelid.
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Diagnosis of genital warts
Visual diagnosis by a physician is adequate for most warts, a biopsy is indicated for pigmented and other atypical lesions, those that do not respond to treatment or have appearances suggestive of abnormal tissue masses (neoplasms) or malignancies.
If you suspect that you have genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus, consult your doctor promptly.
Treatment of genital warts
The primary goal of treatment is to remove warts; no available therapy has been shown to eradicate the Human Papillomavirus.
For more information on the treatment of genital warts visit the following article: Treatment of Genital Warts
The impact of genital warts on mental health
The diagnosis of this condition causes a state of psychological distress in which you may experience:
- Fear
- Gonna
- Shame
- Blame
- Depression
- Anxiety
It is also common to present behaviors that negatively impact the patient’s quality of life, some of these are:
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- Couple conflicts
- Social isolation
- Irritability
- Sexual dysfunction
If the situation you are experiencing exceeds your ability to cope with these mental symptoms, it is advisable to seek psychological help. You can benefit from the relief that comes with a safe therapeutic space controlled by a mental health professional.
