Genital warts
Symptoms and causes
Symptoms and causesWhat is it?
Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection. Of sexually active Belgians, 1 in 100 are carriers of the HPV virus, which causes the condition. Infection occurs through sexual contact. Condylomata are easily transmissible and therefore highly contagious.
After infection, the virus remains invisible for a while, but the person is nonetheless contagious. When infected, warty appendages can be seen in the genital area and sometimes around the anus.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis and treatmentHow is the diagnosis determined?
Two examinations provide certainty about the diagnosis:
- Physical examination: this physical examination reveals the typical cauliflower-like injuries. They are mainly found on the penis, anal, vaginal and pubic area.
- Biopsy: in case of doubt, the doctor can remove a piece of tissue and have it examined in the laboratory.
The doctor can treat genital warts in different ways:
- Medication to be applied locally: Aldara
- Freezing
- Excision
- Laser
- Vaccination (Gardasil)
Sexual partners of the last six months should be informed; they should also get checked.
Treatment centres and specialisations
Treatment centres and specialisations
Latest publication date: 15/05/2024
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip
