Venereal Warts
Venereal warts (condylomata acuminata), cauliflower-like and red, are caused by a virus and are thought to be almost
exclusively sexually transmitted. In women, they appear around the vagina and rectum, growing more rapidly where they
come in contact with any vaginal discharge and being greatly aggravated by pregnancy. In men, they appear on the penis
and rectal area.
A wart-removing compound may be prescribed, although it is not recommended for use during pregnancy since it can be
harmful to the fetus. The compound should be used with care and applied only to the surface of the warts. About six
hours after application, a sitz bath should be taken to remove any excess. Over-the-counter preparations should never
be used; the genital tissues are too sensitive for such products. Occasionally it is necessary to remove venereal
warts by electro-cauterization (burning) or by surgery.
Pubic Lice
Pubic lice (crab lice) are almost always transmitted sexually. The lice, which can be found attached to the pubic hair,
are yellow-gray in color, becoming dark after they are engorged with blood.
An infestation of crab lice causes intense itching in the pubic area as a reaction to the parasites' bites. It can be
readily cured with the application of a prescription cream, lotion or shampoo. To prevent re-infestation, the sexual
partner(s) should also be treated, and clothes and linens washed.
Summing Up
Sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and syphilis are highly contagious infections. If you are sexually
active--other than with a single partner who is also monogamous--you risk exposure to these diseases; the more partners,
the greater the risk. Sensible precautions that may be taken include urinating and washing the genitals after intercourse,
using condoms and spermicidal vaginal foams, jellies or creams, and being tested frequently for gonorrhea and syphilis if
you have several sexual partners--or if your partner does.
If you suspect that you have a sexual infection do not hesitate to tell your partner(s) and to visit your doctor or a
clinic immediately. Sexually transmitted diseases can be cured only with prescribed courses of drug therapy. Never attempt
to treat these diseases yourself. Above all, do not let fear or embarrassment stand in the way of receiving medical care.
