Genital wart is a viral infection caused by the Human papilloma virus (HPV). This infection has become increasingly common in recent years.
The infection is acquired through sexual contact. The incubation period ranges from a few weeks to more than a few months or even longer. The infected person presents with cauliflower-like growths on the genitalia or around the anus. These may then slowly increase in size. The lesions may be traumatized easily and bleed.
Trichomoniasis is a protozoa infection acquired through sexual contact. The incubation period is around 4-20 days. Females may present with vaginal itchiness and odorous yellow vaginal discharge. Males usually do not have any symptoms, although occasionally they may have painful urination and purulent urethral discharge.
Pubic Lice is a parasite that infects the hairy parts of the body, most commonly the pubic lice hair. It is transmitted by sexual contact or sharing of common bathing costumes, blankets etc. with infected person.
The lice suck human blood and cause intense itchiness. Secondary bacterial infection may result from scratching. Misuse of drugs can cause skin irritation or allergy.
If you suspect you have genital wart, trichomoniasis infection or pubic lice infestation, you should seek medical advice and treatment. The Social Hygiene Clinic of Department of Health offers check up, treatment and counseling. A referral is not required, and all information are kept confidential.
You should follow medical advice. Your sexual partner should also receive check up and treatment to avoid repeated cross transmission.
The most effective way of preventing sexually transmitted infections is to have safer sex and maintain a mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner and avoid casual sex. If this is impossible, condom should be properly used during each sexual contact to reduce the chance of infection.
For more health information, please call:
AIDS HOTLINE : 2780 2211
DR. SEX HOTLINE : 2337 2121
DH 24-hour Health Education Hotline : 2833 0111
or visit:
Centre for Health Protection web site
http://www.chp.gov.hk
DH Central Health Education Unit web site
http://www.cheu.gov.hk
