5 Proven Ways to Prevent Genital Warts

Did you know that genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide? It is approximated that millions of new cases appear each year. The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes genital warts and estimates suggest that billions of the world’s population engage in sexual activity making them liable to this infection.

If you are in this category, here are a few ways to prevent your genitals from having small, flesh-colored bumps:

Get the HPV Vaccine

According to research, HPV vaccination has been shown to significantly reduce the prevalence of genital warts by about 90% among vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated individuals.

Picture of the HPV vaccine Photo Credit: The Punch Newspaper

So, you want to engage in sexual activity? Get vaccinated today!

Check out – HPV Vaccine

Use condoms or dental dams

Barriers like condoms and dental dams for those that practice oral sex reduces but does not 100% eradicate the transmission. However, it is better to use than to not use.

Don’t douche

Douching, which is washing or cleaning out the vagina’s interior with water or mixture of other fluids, greatly increases the risk of infection and is therefore discouraged by healthcare professionals.

Limit your number of sexual partners

Genital warts are transmitted through sexual intercourse which brings about skin-to-skin contact. Therefore, having fewer sexual partners decreases the chances of meeting someone who is infected with HPV.

Get regular STI testing and treatment as needed

Going to see a doctor regularly and starting treatment as soon as possible when genital warts are seen is advised for those that engage in sexual activity. Do you engage in sexual activity a lot? Get tested and treated as needed.

A word from HealthFacts to You

By executing these preventive measures, you can reduce the fear of genital warts ultimately improving overall sexual health outcomes.

Stay healthy and practice safe sex!

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