Genital warts are caused by certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can affect both men and women. If left untreated, genital warts can lead to serious health problems. In this article, we’ll discuss what happens when genital warts are left untreated.
Risk of Infection
One of the main risks of leaving genital warts untreated is the potential for the infection to spread. Genital warts are highly contagious, and can be spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. They can also be spread through contact with an infected person's clothing, towels, or bedding. If left untreated, the warts can spread to other areas of the body or to other people.
Cancer Risk
Another potential risk associated with leaving genital warts untreated is a heightened risk of certain types of cancer. Certain types of HPV can cause cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. If left untreated, the virus can cause these cancers. It is important to note that not all types of HPV can cause cancer, and not everyone with HPV will develop cancer.
Psychological Impact
The psychological impact of genital warts can be significant. People with genital warts may experience feelings of shame, guilt, and embarrassment. They may also have difficulty forming or maintaining relationships due to the stigma associated with genital warts.
Treatment Options
If you have genital warts, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Treatment options for genital warts include topical creams, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal. Talk to your doctor about which treatment option is right for you.
If you have genital warts, it is important to seek treatment. Treatment can help reduce the risk of infection and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. It can also help to reduce the psychological impact of genital warts and help you to form and maintain relationships.