Genital warts can often form a line, however, they are generally soft and have a cauliflower appearance. Warts can be transmitted despite condom use, and can be treated easily. Not all patients receive adequate coverage from Gardasil, a vaccine that protects women and men from HPV (human papilloma virus, the virus that causes warts and cervical cancer).
Cysts are often uncomfortable and do not form a line.
Initial outbreaks of Herpes Virus do not always cause pain, however, they do cause flu-like symptoms. Your doctor can run a blood test to test for HSV1/2 to tell you for certain if you are a carrier. Again, condoms do not always protect you against herpes transmission, as they can be at the base of the penis, where a condom would not cover.
Your gynecologist will examine you, perhaps swab the area for culture or testing, and possibly recommend a blood panel. I always recommend patients have annual STD testing - even if they've had one partner.
Robyn Giard, ND
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