Genital warts are actually a common sexually transmitted disease among both men and women across the country. Although there are about 30 types of HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) that directly affect the genital area, only a few specifically cause genital warts. Spread through skin-to-skin contact via oral, vaginal or anal sex, they are highly contagious and even with treatment can be spread to other people. However, it's very important to seek medical attention as soon as you suspect you may have contracted the virus. If left untreated, genital warts can damage cells or affect your reproductive health.

While many people experience common symptoms which indicate an outbreak of genital warts, still others do not experience any symptoms at all. Another important thing to note is that the warts are more easily spread during pregnancy or to a person who has a compromised immune system due to other conditions such as AIDS, diabetes, and chemotherapy. Because genital warts normally take up to six weeks to appear after a person contracts the disease, you may remain symptom free for over a month before you notice anything ususual. If you suspect you may have come in contact with the virus, it's very important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Remember, while treatment is beneficial it may still be possible to spread genital warts to others.

There are numerous treatment options your doctor can prescribe in order to treat your warts. Between at-home treatments and in-office procedures, most people do not have frequently reccuring outbreaks after the initial treatment. However, there are some who experience another outbreak several months after treatment. The risk increases if you smoke cigarettes, so it's strongly advisable to quit the habit. In order to decrease your chances of contracting genital warts, it's important to use condoms 100% of the time as well as to heighten your immune system with healthier diet and lifestyle choices.

While being diagnosed with genital warts may be a frightening experience at first, it's important to remember that the disease is treatable. With treatment you can prevent or significantly reduce your chances of getting future breakouts. However, remember that you may still be able to spread the disease even while undergoing treatment for the condition. Even if you aren't experiencing any symptoms but feel you may have been exposed to the virus, it's very important to book an appointment with your physician as soon as possible. The sooner you receive treatment for genital warts the better off you will undoubtedly be.