Will genital warts be contagious?
Disease description:
I was recently diagnosed with genital warts and feel quite worried and scared. I would like to ask whether this condition is contagious?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Genital warts are usually contagious, so protective measures should be taken. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital as soon as possible and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.
Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are primarily spread through direct skin or mucosal contact, especially through sexual contact. This condition is contagious and can be transmitted between sexual partners. It can also spread indirectly through non-sexual contact, such as sharing towels or washcloths, although this mode of transmission is relatively uncommon.
The key to preventing genital warts is avoiding unsafe sexual practices. Using condoms can reduce the risk of infection. Regular sexual health check-ups are also important to detect and treat lesions promptly, thus reducing the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
As genital warts are contagious, once diagnosed, patients should seek timely medical care, avoid sexual contact with others to prevent transmission, and maintain good personal hygiene, keeping the genital area clean and dry. Patients should avoid scratching the affected area to prevent secondary infections.
