Fig warts (or also called genital warts) are also known as condylomata acuminata. They are a sexually transmissible infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are small, wart-like growths that can appear on the genitals, in the anal area, or in the mouth and throat.
Fig warts can be uncomfortable and cause itching, pain and bleeding. In rare cases, they can also lead to complications such as cervical cancer or cancer of the genital region.
One rarely comes alone
The use of condoms during sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. But since HPV can be transmitted through skin contact, condoms do not provide complete protection. There are also vaccines against HPV that can help reduce the risk of infection.
This article is about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of genital warts. It is not intended to be professional advice. We are not doctors, psychologists, social workers, etc. and can only explain the terms and the context and refer to support services. For specialist treatment etc., please contact a help centre near you.
Causes of genital warts
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world. And there are more than 100 different types of HPV, some of which can cause the development of genital warts. The viruses are transmitted through direct skin contact during sexual intercourse. And also be transmitted through contact with infected surfaces, such as towels or clothing. Some factors can increase the risk of HPV infection and thus genital warts. Including unprotected sexual intercourse, frequently changing sexual partners, smoking and a weakened immune system.
HPV penetrates the upper layers of the skin or mucous membrane and causes the formation of warts. Which are usually white or flesh-coloured and have an irregular, wart-like structure. The warts may be flat or raised and may occur singly or in groups.
Symptoms of genital warts
The symptoms of genital warts can vary from person to person, and some people can be infected and have no symptoms. However, for others, the warts can cause unpleasant symptoms, such as:
- Small, flesh-coloured or white warts in the genital or anal area or in the mouth and throat
- Warts that may be flat or raised and have a wart-like structure
- Itching or pain in the area of the warts
- Bleeding during sexual intercourse
It is also possible for the warts to change or become larger over time. In people with a uterus, the warts can also appear in the uterine cervix area, which in some cases can lead to abnormal cell changes.
Get tested!
Genital warts are usually diagnosed by a physical examination by a medical professional. For people with a uterus, an examination of the uterine cervix may also be performed to detect abnormalities that may indicate HPV infection.
In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to take a tissue sample that can be examined in the laboratory to confirm whether it is a wart or to rule out other diseases.
It is also possible for a person on medical duty to carry out an HPV test to determine whether there is an HPV infection that can lead to genital warts. An HPV test can be done using either a cell sample from the cervix or a urine sample.
It is important to note that many people become infected with HPV during their lifetime, but many do not show symptoms and are not aware that they are infected. This is why regular screening and Pap tests are important and can help to detect and treat HPV and related conditions such as cervical cancer early on.
So get tested regularly!
Treatment of genital warts
There are various treatments for genital warts, but there is no cure for the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes them. Treatment aims to remove the warts and relieve the symptoms. Some of the common treatments for genital warts include:
- Application of ointments or creams: Ointments or creams containing imiquimod, podophyllin resin or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be applied to the warts to reduce their size and decrease their number.
- Icing (cryotherapy): The warts can be treated with liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy them.
- Cryotherapy.
- Electrosurgery or laser therapy: In this method, the warts are removed with a high-frequency electrical probe or a laser.
- Surgical removal: In some cases, the warts can also be removed surgically.
It is important to note that there is currently no cure for HPV, and successful treatment does not mean that the infection has been permanently eliminated. It is also possible for new warts to appear after treatment, especially if the immune system is weakened.
This is why it is also important to educate yourself, talk to your healthcare professional and get tested regularly or be informed about symptoms, and to seek advice early and stop sexual activity if necessary. Vaccination against HPV can also help reduce the risk of infection.
Preventive measures
There are several measures you can take to reduce the risk of HPV infection and therefore the risk of genital warts. Here are some preventive measures:
- Condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV infection, especially if they are used correctly and consistently
- a limited number of sexual partners can help reduce the risk of HPV infection
- vaccination against HPV is an effective way to reduce the risk of infection, especially in young people who are not yet sexually active
- Smoking can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of HPV infection
- Regular screening, including Pap tests and HPV tests, can help detect and treat HPV and related diseases early
Adherence to preventive measures can help reduce the risk of infection and minimise the risk of genital warts and other conditions associated with HPV.
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