If you are concerned that you have contracted or developed a genital rash, you should use Instant Consult to quickly and easily connect with an after hours doctor who can give you a referral for a genital warts test.
This is a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. This issue is not only physically unpleasant and often painful to deal with, it is also embarrassing to confront sexual partners about and can be awkward to bring up with new partners.
Naturally, if you think you may have this kind of infection you should get peace of mind straight away with a professional genital warts test. Early detection is essential for ensuring that the treatment you receive is as effective as possible and for preventing you from spreading the infection to others.
What are the symptoms?
Compare the following symptoms with your own to see if you require a genital warts test
This infection commonly manifests in the form of soft, small bumps in the genital area. They can be white, grey or even skin-coloured, making them hard to detect when glancing with the naked eye.
They are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) of which there are over 100 strains with varying levels of severity. This is why getting a genital warts test to determine a course of action is so essential.
When several bumps collect together they often resemble the shape of a cauliflower. They can come in various different sizes and may manifest as larger individual bumps than small clusters.
They are discoverable on or around any part of male or female genitalia including:
- Vulva
- Vaginal walls
- Cervix
- Penis
- Scrotum
- Perineum
When they are found directly on reproductive organs and the anus they are known as anogenital warts.
People suffering with a form of infectious genital rash usually experience routine itching, discomfort and/or pain in the affected area. This discomfort can be aggravated by abrasion, especially during intercourse and this may cause the bumps to bleed.
Instant Video Calls
Your platform to access fully qualified Doctors for an online health consultation…instantly
Speak to a Doctor now
How does it spread?
HPV is primarily spread via direct human contact, most notably during intimate contact required by vaginal or anal sex. It is rare, but possible to transmit a genital rash via oral sex. The bumps themselves might take several weeks or months to manifest, or may not show up at all, and this can make it difficult to track down which sexual partner you were exposed by.
Treatment for HPV
If you are found positive for HPV after your genital warts test, the following treatments may be recommended by your doctor
The virus is normally destroyed by the body’s immune system over an extended period. The doctor-prescribed treatments you receive will not get rid of the infection, only remove visible bumps for cosmetic reasons. We can connect you with a phone consultation doctor to discuss a range of treatments.
Note: Over the counter treatments are not appropriate for HPV. Always consult a doctor before pursuing any of these following treatments:
Podophyllotoxin
This is a special lotion that can be applied from home and is most effective on groups of small bumps that you can access without hassle. It is not appropriate for pregnant women.
Cryotherapy
The bumps are physically frozen and chipped off the skin with dry ice or liquid nitrogen. This can often require several consecutive treatments.
Laser/diathermic
This is primarily used in cases where there are a large number of bumps on the skin or if other treatments have been ineffectual. This kind of therapy is undertaken by a hospital using general anaesthetic.
Imiquimod cream
A cream that is applied 3 times a week for up to 3 months. It is not appropriate for pregnant women.
Why Instant Consult?
Find out why you should get your referral for a genital warts test from us
With Instant Consult, you can download our FREE phone app, create an account in minutes and speak to a fully qualified doctor online, through video call, all without leaving your bed! Say goodbye to waiting rooms, old magazine and rude receptionists – we’re a clinic in your pocket at all times.
Going into a physical clinic can be very embarrassing for many people when they are asking about a potential STI. This is why Instant Consult is so popular with people who want quick, discreet and hassle-free referrals for STI testing that they can take to any diagnostic clinic of their choice.
Download our FREE phone app from the Google or Apple store and speak to a doctor today!
Our Feedback
Community of Doctors
Australian registered, fully qualified, insured and experienced Doctors right at your fingertips ready for an instant online consult
