When the warts continued to spread and itch persistently, she sought help at a private clinic and tested positive for HPV type 11. The clinic recommended electrocautery, a treatment spanning several months, but her condition didn't improve. The procedure caused pain and burning, especially when urinating or moving.

According to Mai, the treatment cost tens of millions of Vietnamese dong but wasn't effective. The warts returned after each procedure. She felt anxious and confused by the information she found. The frequent visits to the gynecologist also made her feel embarrassed, and she wanted to discontinue treatment.

Cuong, 25 (Ho Chi Minh City), also had genital warts but didn't seek professional medical advice. Instead, he consulted "online doctors" in online forums and was advised he could self-treat. He spent 4 million dong on topical medications recommended online, but the warts persisted. After two to three months, the warts spread across the shaft and head of his penis, making urination painful and difficult. He finally decided to see a specialist at a hospital after experiencing persistent pain, particularly when urinating, showering, and dressing.

Patients should seek medical examination and testing at healthcare facilities if they notice signs of genital warts. Illustrative photo: Vecteezy

Patients should seek medical examination and testing at healthcare facilities if they notice signs of genital warts. Illustrative photo: Vecteezy

Dr. Nguyen Ba My Nhi, Director of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, said she has seen many cases where patients delayed seeking medical attention, allowing the warts to grow significantly. Many mistake them for common gynecological issues, self-medicate, and only seek professional help when the condition worsens. By then, the warts have often spread extensively. Large warts (larger than 1 cm, 2 cm, sometimes even 10 cm) require surgical removal or cauterization.

Some patients, even after undergoing procedures, don't adhere to follow-up appointments. This can lead to a recurrence of warts, as those hidden internally may continue to grow. These cases are often more difficult to treat.

In some cases, the condition worsens due to a weakened immune system. For example, during pregnancy, particularly between weeks 12 and 14, genital warts can grow rapidly. HIV infection can also compromise the immune system, making genital warts a recurring issue.

According to Dr. Nhi, the biggest challenge in treating genital warts is often the patient's mindset. While not always painful, genital warts can be itchy. Patients might feel the warts but not experience significant pain, leading them to delay or forgo treatment or not follow prescribed treatment plans.

Many patients, especially women, find it difficult to accept a genital warts diagnosis. They are often hesitant to discuss sexually transmitted infections and may not confide in others. They may delay seeking treatment at reputable hospitals, opting instead for unqualified private clinics. Relationship conflicts and breakdowns can occur when one partner has a sexually transmitted infection.

"Without proper treatment, the condition can worsen, leading to depression and fear of incurable disease. Patients may also avoid sexual intimacy with their partners," Dr. Nhi said.

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection. Over 90% are caused by HPV types 6 and 11. Typical symptoms include small, discolored or gray warts on the genitals, which can cause itching and bleeding during intercourse.

A 2017 Canadian study of 400 individuals aged 18-45 with a prior history of genital warts found that almost 50% of those in the high-risk group experienced recurrence despite previous successful treatment.

Individuals should seek specialized medical care if genital warts recur to ensure appropriate treatment. Illustrative photo: Vecteezy

Individuals should seek specialized medical care if genital warts recur to ensure appropriate treatment. Illustrative photo: Vecteezy

Dr. Nhi emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals educating patients about early treatment to prevent complications. Sensitivity is crucial during consultations, avoiding language that could discourage patients from disclosing their medical history or seeking care. Such language can make patients feel ashamed or fear ridicule. They may worry about being judged for having genital warts due to perceived "unhealthy" sexual practices.

Currently, genital warts can be treated at most healthcare facilities with various methods. Dr. Nhi advises seeking treatment at reputable facilities as soon as symptoms appear. Treatment plans vary depending on the individual case, ranging from topical medications for mild cases to surgical interventions for larger warts that don't respond to medication. Treatment options include liquid nitrogen, electrocautery, surgical excision or curettage, laser therapy, and electrosurgery.

Treatment costs vary based on the severity of the condition and the healthcare facility. Topical medications for small warts can cost a few hundred thousand dong. Surgical procedures, electrocautery, or laser therapy can cost millions of dong.

To prevent genital warts, Dr. Nhi recommends consulting healthcare professionals about HPV prevention and related diseases. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing safe sex, getting the HPV vaccine, and undergoing regular cervical cancer screenings for women. Studies also suggest that circumcision may reduce the risk of HPV infection in men.

Yen Chi

*Names have been changed.

This content was jointly compiled by the Vietnam Preventive Medicine Association and MSD, verified by the Vietnam Preventive Medicine Association, and funded by MSD for educational purposes. Please consult a healthcare professional.