Q&A Part IV – Dr Mink
Question:
Hello. I recently discovered small wart-like growths on the mucous membrane near my labia. I thought they were Hormone-related. The thing is, my partner has two HPV-type warts in his pubic area. Since we have been together for a year, could I have contracted them from him? I only recently got them, so will we be able to continue having sex?
Answer by Dr Mink:
It is easier to assess what kind of growths have appeared with an examination. You and your sexual partner have them. You need to consult a gynaecologist because these may not be condylomas but an atheroma or inflammation of the hair follicle or molluscum contagiosum. Any growth requires diagnostics, and it may not be one Hormone specialist but several (including a dermatologist).
First, take a smear test using the PCR method for papilloma, the source of condylomas. If the doctor confirms a diagnosis of genital condylomatosis, you and your sexual partner must remove them. During this time, you must also interrupt sexual activity.
Question:
Hello. I treated a pointed version of the condyloma 6 years ago; they were near the urethra and vagina. Why did they appear again?
Answer by Dr Mink:
There are 2 possible options for relapse. The first option is that visible ones were removed last time, but the papilloma remained. Weakened immunity (stress, pregnancy and other factors) contributes to the virus’s activity and the beginning of the Hormone growth of new condylomas. Therefore, after treatment, it was necessary to monitor the presence in the body once a year (PCR smear for HPV). The second option is that you become infected with the virus again.
Question:
Good afternoon. A couple of months ago, a couple of pimples appeared on the lower part of the buttocks (not in the crotch, but on the skin – approximately in the place where we sit). At first, I mistook them for ordinary pustules, so I applied brilliant green and cauterized them with an alcohol solution of potassium permanganate. It didn’t help. They don’t itch and don’t bother me in any way; the only thing is that they’ve increased in size and become keratinised. And three more of these things appeared on my pubis a month later. I haven’t gone to the doctor; I’m embarrassed. I’m panicking. Did I get infected when I changed my sexual partner? Please advise what it could be and how to get rid of it.
Answer by Dr Mink.:
You need to consult a dermatologist.
Based on your description, I believe you have molluscum contagiosum, but I’m concerned about making a mistake without examining you first. Your sexual partner is not responsible for this condition, and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed about undergoing a doctor’s examination.
This is a viral disease; infection occurs in everyday life, for example, through sand on the beach. Treatment: laser removal of formations or squeezing combined with taking decals. For the treatment to be effective, first consult a specialist.
Question:
Hello. I have discovered some growth in my intimate areas. Which doctor should I see???
Answer by Dr Mink:
You need an initial testing consultation with an HPV-trained type gynaecologist. You should see a variant dermatologist if the doctor does not understand the disease.
Question:
Hello, I have a condyloma. The gynaecologist said it could go away as if thrush caused it. Should I believe this, or should I see a dermatologist? Thank you
Answer by Dr Mink:
The appearance of condylomas DNA results from tests for an infection with HPV. This virus is usually transmitted sexually. Yeast colpitis (thrush) is a consequence of a violation of the vaginal microflora, which can occur as a result of infection. Yeast colpitis is treated by prescribing antifungal suppositories, and they must be removed. In intimate places, gynaecologists treat them mainly, but a dermatologist can also treat you. The doctor should give you your trust. Indeed, in some cases, they disappear independently, but in any case, doctors recommend antiviral treatment (local general or combined) and more often insist on removing them.
Question:
A 20-year-old girl has vaginal CONs, and she feels anxious about their removal. She worries about the potential for reappearance and the possibility of scarring. We live in Kent. Advise what to do.
Answer by Dr Mink:
It is better to remove vaginal CONs with a laser. As a result, there will be no scars, and this method is an effective cosmetic surgery. However, please note that no removal method guarantees that a relapse will not occur. Therefore, you can come for an examination; I provide consultations in Kent.
Question:
Hello! If the condylomas are only on the mucous membrane, how will the cream help if applied only to the nearby skin? Can the cream help eliminate the papillomavirus itself or only the CONs? I also heard that Israeli Aldara Hormone cream is better but not sold in the UK. How is it different from ours? And where can I order it?
Answer by Dr Mink:
Imiquimod cream acts on the DNA receptors of natural immunity, stimulating interferon production and attracting other immune system cells to this area. Tests indicate that this leads to a decrease and disappearance of HPV CONs at the site of application of the cream and in a significant area surrounding this place. The cream also helps to reduce the amount of viral DNA in the cells, which rids the body of the virus. In our country, Imiquimod cream is sold by Swedish and Indian Hormone companies (do not buy Indian-made ones). The Swedish cream works well (I have known and used it for a long time), but I don’t know about the Israeli Hormone one.
Question:
I had sexual intercourse with a man who had a small papilloma on his penis, located below the head; moreover, we did not use protection. Given that two months have passed, could you please tell me if there are any concerns for me? Should I consider taking some tests?
Answer by Dr Mink:
Take a DNA test from the cervix and vulva for HPV using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Although it is indeed sexually transmitted, it should not cause you to panic. It is very common, and the person’s immunity typically fights the virus; consequently, in 80% of cases, individuals cope with it without taking medication. Moreover, the manifestation of the virus after sexual intercourse is unpredictable, generally occurring within an average of up to six months.