Vaginal Lesion or Wart Removal: What You Need to Know

There are several treatments for vaginal lesion or wart removal that are non-surgical. For lesions that occur in more than one area of the vagina and that have a higher number of abnormal than healthy cells, a doctor may prescribe topical chemotherapy. This treatment involves applying a cream containing fluorouracil (5-FU) directly to the lining of the vagina every other day for about 10 weeks. Fluorouracil may cause some irritation in the vagina which can be managed by having your dose adjusted by a doctor.

 The doctor may perform a wide excision to remove a precancerous lesion in the vagina. For this procedure, he or she removes the growth along with a border of healthy tissue to ensure all precancerous cells have been removed. The doctor may opt to perform laser surgery, in which a laser is used to remove lesions or abnormal cells in the vagina.

There are several advantages to the removal of vaginal lesions and/or warts. First, the abnormal tissue on the vagina or vulvar (the lesion or wart) is removed. This action may decrease the risk of developing cancer. It will also allow your doctor to make a more informed diagnosis, helping to determine the best treatment for your particular concern.

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Causes Leading to Vaginal Lesion or Wart Removal

If there are more healthy cells present than abnormal cells (low-grade vaginal dysplasia), your doctor may recommend observation. Some types of human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause dysplasia in the cells lining the vagina. If the body is healthy enough to fight the infection, these changes may go away on their own.

 To monitor changes in your vaginal cells, you may need to see your doctor every six months. Your doctor will likely perform a colposcopy, a procedure during which a colposcope (a magnifying instrument specifically designed for this purpose) is inserted into the vagina. This may or may not involve a biopsy.

A colposcopy helps your doctor to determine if dysplasia is still present.

Vaginal Lesion or Wart Removal Procedure Explained

A vulvar or vaginal excision is the term used for when tissue of the vulva or vagina is removed. This procedure is often done as part of a varied approach to manage precancerous growths of the vagina. While these growths contain abnormal cells, they are not all cancerous. Carefully managing these lesions can prevent the most common type of vaginal cancer from developing. Other reasons to have the procedure include, further diagnosing cancer, treating chronic inflammation of the vagina or vulvar, and to obtain more information about the vagina than can be seen through a routine pelvic exam.

Excision is a surgical procedure which requires general anesthesia and is performed in a hospital. You can usually go home the same day. You may experience some minor bleeding and discomfort afterward, which is treated with medication prescribed by your doctor.

Another form of vaginal lesion or wart removal your doctor may perform is laser surgery. Laser surgery is used to destroy abnormal cells in the vagina if they occur in more than one area and are presumed benign (noncancerous). For this procedure, a colposcope is used to magnify and light the vagina while laser light is delivered to remove the precancerous lesions. Laser surgery usually requires general anesthesia and is performed in a hospital. You can typically go home the same day. After laser surgery, you may experience some minor bleeding or vaginal discharge for several days. 

Potential Side Effects of Vaginal Lesion or Wart Removal 

There are a few risks and side effects of having vaginal lesions or warts removed. There is a possibility of developing an infection in the excision. You could incur damage to a vein or artery which might cause serious bleeding. You may experience a recurrence of a lesion. There is a possibility of having chronic pain or scarring.

 

How Advanced Gynecology Can Help: Is Vaginal Lesion or Wart Removal Right For You?

If you are suffering from vaginal lesions or warts and are thinking about removal, Advanced Gynecology is here for you.

Our board-certified team of women’s health experts are ready to help you with diagnostic care and a range of treatment options.

We will counsel you about the best options for you and your health.

For more information, schedule an appointment today or call 706-389-9228 to speak with one of our patient coordinators.

For more information, schedule an appointment today or call 706-389-9228 to speak with one of our patient coordinators.

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