What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molliscum Contagiosum is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Molluscum Contagiosum is also a viral infection. It's also known as "Water warts".
How do people get Molluscum Contagiosum?
People usually get Molluscum Contagiosum from close contact. Molluscum Contagiosum is considered an STI, but can also be spread without sexual intercourse. If you touch someone, and they have it, you might get it where you touched them. Although, not all people get it from touching other people. Sometimes, people get it from sharing clothes or towels with people that have Molluscum Contagiosum.
How do you know if you have Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum Contagiosum makes small bumps on the skin (See Image). If you have small bumps on your skin, (Usually around the thighs or genital areas) that could be a sign of Molluscum Contagiosum. Bumps don't start appearing until two or three months after the infection. There aren't any other symptoms or signs of having the infection, but if you have a weakened immune system (Cause by Cancer, HIV, etc.) then the symptoms may be worse. If you think that you have Molluscum Contagiosum, talk to your doctor about it.
Is there a cure?
There is a cure for Molluscum Contagiosum. Molluscum Contagiosum's cure is also counted as a treatment. There are multiple ways for treating it. One way is freezing them off. Another way is removing them chemicals. There is also medication you can take to stop them. If you don't want treatment or medication, Molluscum Contagiosum can go away on its own. That usually takes about two to four years. Usually, doctors leave it to go away on its own. Doctor's don't treat it because it can be painful.