What are the risk factors for genital warts?
A number of risk factors increase the likelihood of competing with HPV. These:
Unprotected sex with multiple partners
Having a sexually transmitted disease other than genital warts
Becoming sexually active at an early age
Having diseases that suppress the immune system
What diseases does HPV infection cause other than genital warts?
People infected with HPV usually get rid of this virus within a few years. However, the virus can cause various problems by continuing its existence in the body. It can cause penile cancer in men, especially in uncircumcised individuals. In women, it is a risk factor for cervical cancer. For this reason, women over the age of 30 should be screened with a smear test every year.
Is it possible to prevent the formation of genital warts?
While some HPV types cause cancer, others only cause warts. There are vaccines that prevent cancer formation, as well as vaccines that prevent both cancer and warts. Vaccination before the start of an active sexual life provides more effective defense. It is recommended that girls and boys get the HPV vaccine after the age of 9. Although the effect decreases until the age of 45, it is beneficial. In addition, the use of condoms during the bonding reduces the contamination. One of the most valuable prevention procedures is the treatment of existing warts. Delaying the treatment of warts with situations such as not taking time, care or embarrassment increases the spread both in the person and in the partner. This leads to progression of the disease and an increased likelihood of recurrence after treatment.
How is genital warts treated?
Treatment is the removal of warts with cream, laser burning, freezing, surgical incision or electrocautery. Sometimes these treatments can be combined. There is no additional treatment for the individual who does not have warts. HPV is a viral disease and can hide in the body, causing moderately recurring warts.
