If you notice small bumps or wart-like lesions on the female genital area,

it may be condyloma (genital warts).

Condyloma is most commonly associated with HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection,

particularly HPV types 6 and 11.

Approximately 90% of anogenital warts are reported to be related to HPV types 6 and 11.

Here are the three most frequently asked questions about genital warts.

1. How is it transmitted?

Condyloma can be transmitted through sexual contact.

Transmission may occur not only through penetrative intercourse, but also through:

 Vulvar skin-to-skin contact

 Oral sex

 Anal sex

 Any contact involving skin and mucous membranes

Because HPV is a very common virus, infection itself is not considered unusual.

2. When is it safe to resume sexual activity?

If visible lesions remain or the treated area is still healing,

it is recommended to temporarily avoid sexual activity.

It is generally safer to resume sexual intercourse only after:

 The treatment area has completely healed

 There is no pain, bleeding, or discharge

 Your doctor has confirmed adequate recovery

Condoms may help reduce the risk of transmission,

but they may not completely prevent infection from uncovered skin areas.

3. How is condyloma treated?

If the lesions are small and detected early, topical medication may sometimes be used.

However, when lesions are larger or multiple lesions are present, treatment options may include:

 Electrocautery

 Laser treatment

 Surgical excision

The most appropriate treatment method may vary depending on the size, location, and extent of the lesions.

Many patients worry and ask:

“Was this caused by recent sexual contact?”

“Did my partner transmit it to me?”

However, HPV has a highly variable incubation period.

Some people may develop symptoms within weeks after infection,

while others may not notice lesions for months or even longer.

Therefore, the presence of condyloma does not necessarily indicate a recent infection or infidelity by a partner.

Nevertheless, it is recommended that sexual partners also undergo evaluation by a urologist or dermatologist to check for possible lesions.

Even after treatment, condyloma can recur.

For this reason, management is important not only for lesion removal, but also for prevention and follow-up care, including:

 Partner evaluation and simultaneous treatment if needed

 Screening for other sexually transmitted infections (STDs)

 Cervical cancer screening

 HPV vaccination

If you suspect genital warts,

do not hesitate to visit a gynecology clinic for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

           [ A Note from Director Kim Min-kyoung ]

Condyloma is not something to feel ashamed of or hide.

With an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, it is a condition that can be effectively managed.

The earlier it is detected, the lower the treatment burden and the faster the recovery tends to be.

If you notice even a small change,

do not worry alone — we encourage you to visit the clinic and receive proper medical care.

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