Small, pinkish-white, waxy, round, polyp-like growths in the genital area or on the thighs. There is often a tiny depression in the middle of the growth. Symptoms usually appear between two and 12 weeks after infection - but it can take years.
How molluscum contagiosum is spread:
Vaginal, anal and oral intercourse, as well as other intimate contact. For example, children may become infected through casual contact. In such cases, growths may appear on other parts of the body, expecially the abdomen.
Diagnosis:
Microscopic examination of tissue taken from the sore.
Treatment:
Growths may be removed with chemicals, electrical current or freezing.
Protection:
Condoms may offer some protection against molluscum contagiosum, but the virus may "shed" beyond the area protected by the condom.