
Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This condition can cause a lot of discomfort and worry, but fortunately there are effective treatments available. At the Rosenberg Clinic, we offer advanced treatments, such as the CryoPen, combined with advice and even therapy aimed at strengthening the health of your microbiome and warding off the HPV virus.
In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about genital warts, and provide information about treatment options at our clinic.
### What are genital warts?
Genital warts are small, skin-colored or gray bumps that form on or around the genitals and anus. They are caused by certain types of HPV, a common virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse. Not all HPV types cause genital warts; some can also lead to more serious conditions, such as cervical and penile cancer.
### How are genital warts transmitted?
Genital warts are usually transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Using condoms can reduce the risk of transmission but does not fully protect, as HPV can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact outside the condom zone.
### How do I know if I have genital warts?
The symptoms of genital warts vary from person to person. Sometimes the warts are visible as small, soft bumps on or around the genitals, anus or in the mouth. They may occur singly or in clusters and sometimes cause itching or discomfort. In some people, however, warts go unnoticed because they are very small or are located in less visible parts of the body.
### How are genital warts treated?
There are several treatment options for genital warts, including:
Cryotherapy with the CryoPen: This is an advanced treatment offered at the Rosenberg Clinic. The CryoPen uses extremely cold temperatures to freeze the warts, causing them to die and eventually disappear. This method is quick, effective and causes minimal damage to the surrounding skin.
Topical creams: There are medications that are applied directly to the warts, such as imiquimod and podophyllotoxin. These (painful) creams have been unsuccessful at Rosenberg so far.
Surgical removal: In some cases, warts can be cut or burned away, especially if they are large or do not respond well to other treatments. In some cases, the warts grow so much in and around the anus that going to the bathroom is sometimes almost impossible.
### Is the CryoPen treatment painful?
Cryotherapy with the CryoPen is generally well tolerated. During the treatment, you may experience a brief burning or tingling sensation, but this usually disappears quickly. After treatment, the skin may be red or slightly swollen, but this usually recovers within a few days.
### Can I prevent genital warts?
While it is not always possible to completely prevent genital warts, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:
1. Vaccination against HPV: The HPV vaccine can protect you from most types of the virus that cause genital warts and some cancers. The vaccine is most effective when administered before a person becomes sexually active, but can also provide benefits later.
2. Use condoms: Although condoms do not fully protect against HPV, they can reduce the risk of transmission. Experience shows that usually the warts are (also) in the area outside the condom, around the pubic area.
3. Healthy microbiome balance/therapy: A healthy microbial balance in your body plays an important role in your immune system. Through a healthy diet, adequate sleep and stress management, you can strengthen your microbiome, which can contribute to a better immune system and protection against viral infections such as HPV. The fact that you have HPV is already a sign that it is advisable to work on your immune system. Now it is HPV but there may be other risks lurking. Viruses, bacteria and also diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and depression stem from an imbalance in the microbiome. So microbiome therapy is not just to solve your HPV but a life changer health opportunity!
### Why is it important to treat genital warts?
Although genital warts are often benign, they can cause discomfort and embarrassment. In addition, untreated HPV infection can increase the risk of the virus spreading and, in some cases, lead to more serious complications, such as cervical cancer in women and penile cancer in men.
At the Rosenberg Clinic, we understand how invasive genital warts can be, both physically and emotionally. That's why we offer a holistic approach to treatment, offering advice on improving your microbiome and strengthening your overall health in addition to CryoPen treatment to prevent future outbreaks.
### What can I expect after the treatment?
After CryoPen treatment at Rosenberg Clinic, you can expect rapid healing. Most people see marked improvement within a few weeks. However, it is important to note that the treatment removes the warts, but not the HPV virus itself. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures, such as improving your immune system and microbiome, to avoid new outbreaks.
### Customized advice at Rosenberg Clinic
At Rosenberg Clinic, we specialize in the treatment of genital warts and offer our patients a safe and effective way to get rid of their symptoms. With the CryoPen, we can treat targeted warts, and with our advice on microbiome health, we help you minimize the risk of reinfection.
Contact us today for a consultation and find out how we can help you with personalized treatment and tailored advice! Step 1 is always to remove the warts. The choice is yours whether you decide later to take your health to the next level.
With this approach, the Rosenberg Clinic focuses on both treatment and prevention of genital warts, not only helping you recover faster, but also keeping you protected from future outbreaks for a long time. WhatsApp for more information or to make an appointment at +31(0)653 27 60 70
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