Causes of Genital Warts Outbreaks

Genital warts are caused by a virus and generally appear in the genital area: the penis, cervix, vulva, and vagina. However, it can occur in other parts of the body as well including the groin and thighs. The different warts can vary in size and location.

Read more to find out what causes genital warts outbreaks and what treatments are available for them.

Causes of Genital Warts Outbreaks

Genital warts are caused by the sexually transmitted disease, HPV. However, there are a few other skin conditions that can be mistaken for genital warts, such as:

• Melanoma
• Squamous cell cancer in the vulva
• Lipoma

Around 90 percent of genital warts outbreaks are caused by HPV strains 6 and 11, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These strains do not cause cancer, however the warts may cause pain, itching, and discomfort.

What is the Treatment for Genital Warts?

Genital Warts Outbreaks caused by HPV can be prevented using vaccines. Gardasil 9 has been approved by the FDA as a vaccine for the strains of the HPV virus that cause genital warts. The vaccine is also effective in treating HPV strains that cause cervical, anal, and genital cancer. This vaccine is suitable for males between the ages of 9 to 15 and females between the ages of 9 and 26.

The treatment of genital warts will differ depending on the size and number of warts. Treating warts involves removal from the affected area. Since the warts are caused by a virus, they can't be treated using antibiotics.

Warts can be removed in different ways. These include:

• Surgical removal
• Electrocautery
• Cryotherapy
• Using cream for a few weeks
• Laser treatment

The treatment of warts can result in skin irritation for some days. Doctors generally recommend pain-relieving medications to ease the pain. Also, you should avoid using bath oils, perfumed soap, lotions, and bubble baths in the treated area until the area is fully recovered.

How to Reduce the Risk of STDs?

Prevention is the best way to avoid the negative risks associated with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HPV, Herpes, Syphilis, and others. Here are some safe sex tips that you should follow if you want to protect yourself against the STDs that cause genital wart outbreaks.

• Wear condoms before and during sexual intercourse
• Use dental dams during oral sex
• Bathe before and after intercourse
• Avoid sharing undergarments or towels
• Get vaccinations for HPV and Hepatitis

In the end, remember that regular STD testing is important. Regular HIV testing, Gonorrhea testing, Chlamydia testing, and Herpes testing will ensure early detection and treatment of STDs. This will ensure that you don't suffer serious health effects of sexual diseases including genital warts.