Condylomas, also known as genital warts, are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. At least half of all sexually active people will be infected with the virus at some point in their lives.
This virus affects the moist tissues of the genital area. In men they can appear on the tip or shaft of the penis, anus or scrotum, while in women they can be seen in the vagina and cervix. They may be small (sometimes not even visible), or resemble a cauliflower.
Contagion of genital warts
Although the sexual route is the most frequent way of contagion, condylomas can also be transmitted by indirect contact through intimate hygiene objects, underwear, public bathrooms, etc. Therefore, it is not possible to know exactly how and when a person becomes infected. The first thing to do when they are detected is to see a specialist.
Treatment of genital warts
The first thing to keep in mind is that condylomas are not a serious disease and can be completely cured. This does not mean that they do not require specific treatment (determined by the specialist), which varies according to:
- Location: whether it is internal, external or mixed. To find out, a rectoscopy should be performed.
- Number of lesions.
To treat them, there are different options that should always be used under medical description (never self-medicate); some of them are:
- Creams, lotions and topicals.
- Cryotherapy, which consists of cold cauterization of the warts through a liquid nitrogen gun.
- Surgery; it is the most effective treatment. In addition, the use of CO2 laser minimizes collateral damage.
- Vaccines