Genital Warts Singapore | HIV PEP
Genital Warts in Singapore: Genital warts are skin growths present on the genitals and anus. They are caused by human papillomavirus infection, which is spread via sexual contact.
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What are genital warts?
Genital warts is a sexually transmitted disease caused by infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts are growths that can occur anywhere on the skin of the genitals, including the vagina, penis, cervix, vulva, urethra and around the anus. Different types of HPV cause other diseases, including plantar warts (on the foot) and cervical cancer. Genital warts in Singapore are not uncommon, and are often reported among young adults.
Genital warts can affect both men and women of any age. However, most genital warts patients are diagnosed between the ages of 17-33 years. In children, genital warts can be transmitted by a non-sexual, direct contact method, in which the child’s unwashed hand transfers the virus to the genitals. However, the presence of genital warts in a child also indicates the chance of sexual abuse.
In some people, genital warts may be numerous and large, requiring medical or surgical treatment. In others, they are more mild. Genital warts affect the warm and moist areas of the body, particularly the genital area. They are small, flesh-colored bumps, often with a cauliflower-like appearance. In some cases, genital warts are too small or flat to be visible. Vaccines are available to prevent HPV infection and the occurrence of genital warts.
Causes of genital warts
Most genital warts are caused by two strains of HPV – type 6 and type 11. The infection spreads from one person to another by direct skin-to-skin contact, which commonly occurs during sexual intercourse, including anal, vaginal and oral sex. Asymptomatic infected people can pass on the infection.
More than 40 different strains of HPV can cause genital infections, including genital warts. In most cases, the immune system clears the virus from the body. Proper treatment and preventive measures may reduce the risk of transmitting genital warts to a sex partner.
Risk factors for developing genital warts
About 50% of all sexually-active people acquire an HPV infection at some point in their lives. Some of the factors that increase the risk of acquiring genital warts are:
- Having a new sex partner with unknown sexual or medical history
- Being sexually active at a young age
- Engaging in unprotected sex
- Having multiple sex partners
- Having a history of other sexually transmitted disease(s)