Condylomata acuminata or veneral warts , commonly known as genital warts, are a common type of sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts are growths on the skin near genital areas including the groin and anus.

Genital Warts: Signs and Symptoms

Genital warts are typically moist, soft, and flesh colored in appearance; located particularly to the genitalia, anus and groin. Genital warts are many different shapes and sizes, and can be raised or flat. It is possible for genital warts to appear in clusters, resembling cauliflower-like bumps. Other symptoms include itching, pain, and bleeding.

In women, genital warts may appear on the cervix, vagina, or vulva. Genital warts located on the cervix or inside the vagina may not be noticeable without detection by a health professional. In men, genital warts may appear on the scrotum and penis.

The development of symptoms usually occurs after a few months of infection, but can range from weeks to years. Many individuals with a HPV infection may not have any signs or symptoms, as the virus can remain dormant for years.

Genital Warts: Causes

Certain strains of the human papillomavirus are cause for the development of genital warts upon infection. Genital warts are highly contagious. Genital warts are spread through skin to skin contact, particularly through sexual activity.

Genital Warts: Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that increase overall chances for the development of genital warts.

• Condoms: Not using condoms during sexual activity increases your overall risk for contracting the HPV virus.
• Multiple Sex Partners: Having multiple sex partners, or a sex partner that has had multiple sex partners, increases the likelihood of HPV virus infection.
• HPV Infected Partner: If your partner has an HPV viral infection overall risk of contraction is increased.
• Age: Typically, individuals that engage in sexual activity before the age of 18 are at a higher risk for contraction of the virus.
• Immune System Impairments: If the immune system is not working at its maximum capacity due to certain impairments, you are at a higher risk for infections.

Genital Warts: Complications

The human papillomavirus has been associated with the development of certain types of cancer . These cancers are typically located to the genitalia, including cervical cancer, cancer of the anus, cancer of the penis, and cancer of the vulva.

Genital warts are also cause for concern during pregnancy. During pregnancy, warts can enlarge, creating difficulties in urination and a decreased ability for the vaginal walls to stretch for childbirth. Although rare, it can cause the development of warts within the throat of the baby, causing breathing problems.

Genital Warts: Prevention Methods

The most important prevention method is to practice safe sex. Using condoms significantly decreases your overall chances for HPV infection. It is also recommended that number of partners be limited. If genital warts are clearly visible, it is advised that sexual activity be avoided until treatment has been received. Regular genital examinations are critical for early detection of sexually transmitted diseases.

Learn more about ways to boost your immune system naturally here.

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/hpv-genital-warts/tc/genital-warts-human-papillomavirus-topic-overview
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/genital-warts/DS00087
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/healthscience/healthtopics/human_papillomavirus/