How to Test for Genital Warts
Genital warts, also called condyloma acuminata, is one of the many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that exist today. In fact, it is the most commonly transmitted STD, and it has no cure. The warts are caused by a virus named human papillomavirus (HPV). This disease affects both men and women. A doctor can most properly test the individual for genital warts, but a simple at-home observation can identify if the individual has genital warts.
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Instructions
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Look for bothersome itching sensation near your genitals or anus. This is the most common sign that you may have genital warts. Sometimes individuals who have genital warts may not know they have genital warts, for they feel no itching or irritation.
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Observe the genital area for any raised lesions or cauliflower like bumps. Look carefully for warts may be hidden among hair and genital parts. Also, if you are prone to catching colds and have an overall weak immune system, genital warts could be the issue.
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Visit your doctor to so she can perform a visual inspection of your genitals, using an acetic acid to whiten any warts. Once the acid is placed on the warts, the doctor uses a special microscope called a colposcope to view them.
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Get a pap smear done. A pap smear can help detect abnormal cells and the early signs of cervical cancer, which is sometimes caused by HPV.
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Once confirmed with genital warts, seek medical treatment. Although genital warts is incurable, treatments given by your doctor can help clear outbreaks when they occur. This is not always necessary as some genital warts disappear without treatment.
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Tips & Warnings
Genital warts are highly infectious, therefore, do not touch them. To prevent spreading genital warts to another individual, avoid having sex when you have an outbreak. Genital warts can also occur in the mouth.
