How Do You Get Genital Warts: Exploring Treatments and Preventative Measures

Many people may ask how do you get genital warts? There are lots of myths surrounding the appearance of genital warts, I have even heard someone say that you can catch genital warts off of a toilet seat; this is just a myth. People get genital warts through sexual activity, this is the only known way to get the this wart virus.

Genital warts are an infection that is sexually transmitted, although it is also part of the HPV virus. Some people who have the genital wart virus may not develop any warts at all, however they will still have the virus. These means that although they are unaware of the virus they can still infect other people.

Scientists have suggested that there some wart viruses that may lead to cervical cancer later in life. All women are advised to got for regular cervical smear tests, these are every 3 years. It is important that you attend your cervical smear appointment.

How do you get genital warts?

Sexual intercourse, if no condom is used.
Direct physical contact with the affected area, such as the vagina or penis.

Signs of the genital wart virus include;

Lumps or swellings in the genital region, these may be grey in color.
Clusters of lumps or warts in close proximity of each other.
Feeling itchy or slightly uncomfortable in the genital region.
Mild bleeding during or after sexual intercourse.

If you think that you have been in contact with the virus you should try to get it checked out as soon as possible. Tests are available at sexual health clinics world wide, or at your doctor's office.

As I mentioned above you can have the actual warts removed but the virus will be with you forever, to avoid the spread of genital warts, try to practice safe sex where ever possible.

If you have been diagnosed with this disease it is important that you refrain from sexual activity, if this is not a possibility you should try to limit the number of sexual encounters.

The treatments for this disease can include;

Imiquimod (aldara), this is found in cream form, it is to be applied liberally to the affected area, and is said to increase the immune system therefore reducing the genital wart infection.

Podofilox (condylox) this treatment is for external use only, it aids in the destruction of the warts. It is common practice for your doctor to administer the first initial treatment. He or she will then give you the details on how to apply the treatment whilst at home.

TCA (trichloroaetic acid) is similar to podofilox as it burns off the warts. A doctor must administer this treatment.

How do you get genital warts? Simple answer, sex, try to keep an eye on your sexual health by having a regular full check up. Get checked for everything if you think there is no possibility of having it. Do not forget to get checked, this is in your best interests.

No matter what, seeking the advice of your doctor is extremely important especially if you believe you are experiencing any of the symptoms that were described in this article. Even though there are treatment options available, it is best to use preventative measures instead of relying on a cure or a treatment option. Always practice safe sex, is it the only true way to ensure that you do not expose yourself to any sexually transmitted diseases.

Above all else, be cautious with who you choose as a sexual partner, and as mentioned prior if you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, then visit your doctor immediately.

For further information on Genital Warts then please visit my health ezines site for detailed information not only on this disease but many other health related topics.

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Genital Herpes Versus Genital Warts: The Low Down on Down Below

Everyone knows what a sexually transmitted disease is, right? You might be surprised to find that genital herpes and genital warts are vastly confused and misunderstood. And yet, it is very common. Approximately 59% of Americans have been infected with Herpes Simplex 1, 16.2% with Herpes Simplex 2, and 50% with the human papilloma virus. So what exactly is the difference between these diseases?

A fever blister is not just a cold sore. Herpes is a virus that has two common forms, with Herpes Simplex 1 being the most infamous. Also known as oral herpes, it primarily affects the lip and mouth region. It is transmitted by activities such as oral sex, kissing, and sharing a toothbrush. HSV 1 can also infect the genital region.

Genital Herpes or Herpes Simplex 2 (HSV 2) is the type that is most often associated with social stigma. It is sexually transmitted by vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse. It causes blisters in the genital and perianal region. The truth is that there is little difference between Herpes Simplex 1 and Herpes Simplex 2. The viruses DNA structure are very similar. The biggest variation appears to be in what body parts it prefers... the face or the genitals.

The human papilloma virus (hpv) causes genital warts. It is comprised of several different strains that cause a range of symptoms. Warts are cauliflower like growths that are a variety of shapes and sizes. Bumps on the penis (or bumps on the vagina) that are red or flesh colored may be genital warts. While uncomfortable, they do not pose much of a health risk.

In women, HPV infections can pose a special concern. Some strains of the virus do not cause warts, but instead create pre-cancerous lesions on the cervix and inner vaginal wall. If left untreated, these lesions can develop into full-blown cancer. The cellular changes that hpv causes are detected with pap smears and colposcopy. HPV is the cause of 100% of all cervical cancers. It can also cause cancer of the penis in men.

HPV is the most widespread sexually transmitted disease. You do not catch it through casual contact; it requires genital-to-genital contact or intercourse. Women who have hpv often never tell anyone because of the shame associated with it. This can greatly increase the opportunity for the disease to spread from partners who don't know that they have been exposed. Here are a few important tips for preventing herpes and hpv:

Use condoms
Limit the number of sexual partners that you have. Scientific studies show that people with multiple sexual partners have a higher occurrence of cervical cancer.
If a partner has hpv, genital warts, or herpes consult with a physician as soon as possible to discuss the likelihood of contracting and spreading the viruses.

Millions of people live with the fact that they have herpes or hpv. It does not mean that they are any less worthy of happiness and fulfillment than those without a STD. There are support groups and dating sites that can help people with these diseases stay active and involved. Visit Love, H Style for more information and important resources.

Monti Robinson is the owner / CEO of http://www.Lovehstyle.com, which was created as a powerful resource not only for people living with Genital Herpes, Oral Herpes, Genital Warts, and HPV; but also for their partners, families, support groups, managers, counselors, and medical professionals.

Love, H Style is an online Social Networking Community where you can find plenty of helpful information about Herpes (HSV-1, HSV-2) and HPV. We also allow you to meet singles throughout the world that come here to gather in search of information, support, friendships, and romance.