One of the most common STDs is genital warts. It’s caused by a virus known as HPV. Usually, genital warts can be diagnosed based on the physical examination alone. However, STD testing is recommended, because many people with genital warts also carry other STDs that can be more dangerous.
Genital warts are very common among sexually active adults. They’re caused by a virus called HPV. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected areas. Warts can occur on the internal or external female genitals, on the penis, in the anal area, and in the mouth and throat.
The size and shape of %genital warts% can vary from person to person. Many genital warts are small and relatively flat, and may not even be noticed. However, others are larger, and may be shaped like a cauliflower. These warts may bother the patient because they can interfere with functions like sex and elimination. However, in general, genital warts are not dangerous and don’t cause significant problems for most people.
Condoms can help to prevent the spread of HPV, but if a wart is in an area that isn’t covered by the condom, then the virus could still be spread. Because the virus only requires direct contact in order to be spread, it can be spread through any type of sex, including intercourse, anal sex, or oral sex.
%STD testing% is not usually necessary to diagnose genital warts. Usually, the diagnosis is clear based on the physical examination. It is possible to take a biopsy of the wart and send it for testing if the diagnosis is uncertain. (Usually, the entire wart will be removed at this time.)
Although STD testing isn’t necessary in order to diagnose genital warts, it’s still important for people with genital warts to visit an STD clinic. That’s because people who have been exposed to genital warts may also have been exposed to other types of STDs. While genital warts themselves are not dangerous, other STDs can cause significant health problems if left untreated.
If you have genital warts, then you should visit a clinic for STD testing. Even if you don’t have warts, %STD testing in Singapore% is recommended on a regular basis for certain groups. Sexually active young adults should be screened at least once per year, and more often in certain cases. You can ask your provider what’s recommended when you visit the STD clinic.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Genital HPV Infection – Fact Sheet.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published 19 May 2016. Accessed 20 Jun 2016. http://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm
Mayo Clinic Staff. “Genital Warts.” Mayo Clinic. Published 2 Jan 2014. Accessed 20 Jun 2016. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/genital-warts/basics/definition/con-20019380
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Anogenital Warts.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published 4 Jun 2015. Accessed 20 Jun 2016. http://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/warts.htm
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Screening Recommendations Referenced in Treatment Guidelines and Original Recommendation Sources.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published 4 Jun 2015. Accessed 20 Jun 2016. http://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/screening-recommendations.htm
References
Genital at Shim Clinic, Singapore