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What to look for
painless
flesh-coloured or white growths on the vulva, anus, or penis that may
develop a cauliflower-like appearance.
growths that are itchy or
mildly sore.
sometimes there are no
symptoms
Women who are pregnant and
people with weak immune systems are more susceptible to this infection.
Genital warts are
contagious, you should see a doctor if you discover any such growths.
Although the warts are
harmless in themselves, there appears to be some link between genital warts and cervical
cancer. Therefore you should have a pap smear regularly to note any changes in the virus.
Causes
Genital warts are caused by
the same virus that causes other
warts on the hands and feet etc -
the human papilloma virus, or HPV.
Traditional Treatment
Although there is no cure
for genital warts, they are easily controlled and should not disrupt your life. Nearly all
warts go within six months to two years. Nonetheless, genital warts should not be left
untreated as they are highly contagious and can come back later on.
Never attempt to get rid of
genital warts with over-the-counter remedies. Instead, let your doctor remove warts with a
chemical "paint".
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Because genital warts are
contagious, you should see a doctor before looking at any other type of treatment.
Chinese Herbs -
A doctor of Chinese medicine will give you a unique herbal prescription to cleanse
your liver and build up your immune system. Ingredients may include Chinese foxglove root
(Rehmannia glutinosa) and gentiana (Gentiana scabra). A doctor of Chinese medicine
will give you a unique herbal prescription to cleanse your liver and build
up your immune system. Ingredients may include Chinese foxglove root (Rehmannia
glutinosa) and gentiana (Gentiana scabra).
Herbal Therapies
- To help heal warts, apply garlic (Allium sativum), or the juice of a sour
apple, a
dandelion stalk, a fresh pineapple, or fresh
green figs.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) juice
applied to the area may be beneficial as well. All have properties that are therapeutic to
skin conditions. To
help heal warts, apply garlic (Allium sativum), or the juice of a sour
apple, a
dandelion stalk, a fresh
pineapple, or fresh green figs.
Calendula
(Calendula officinalis) juice applied to the area may be beneficial as well.
All have properties that are therapeutic to skin conditions.
Homoeopathy -
A Homoeopathic physician will prescribe a treatment to strengthen your immune system.
Some Homoeopaths may recommend that you apply Thuja Occidentalis tincture to the warts.
Sabina, taken orally, is another common remedy. A Homoeopathic physician
will prescribe a treatment to strengthen your immune system. Some
Homoeopaths may recommend that you apply Thuja Occidentalis tincture to the
warts. Sabina, taken orally, is another common remedy.
Dietary Considerations
To prevent infections from
recurring, eat plenty of foods that contain
vitamins A
and
C, which help the body fight off infections,
and
folic acid, which strengthens the immune
system. (Broccoli and spinach are good sources).
Personal Care
Prevention
The best way to prevent
genital warts is to use condoms.
When to seek further
professional advice
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