Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection caused by a poxvirus.
The virus lives in the skin. Once the growths are gone, so is the virus.
How do I get molluscum contagiosum?
You can get molluscum contagiosum from an infected person by:
skin-to-skin contact
sharing clothing, wet towels, gym equipment, or tanning beds
sexual contact
Molluscum usually appears 1 to 3 months after you are exposed. It can last from 6 months to 2 years.
It can be spread to other parts of the body when an infected person scratches the bumps, then touches another body part.
How do I know if I have molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum are small, smooth, pearly white or flesh-coloured hard bumps with a pitted or dimpled centre.
The bumps have a waxy centre.
While the bumps can be sore, red, or swollen, they usually do not hurt.
You can have one or a group of bumps anywhere on the body.
The sexually spread bumps may be found on the genitals, inner thighs, or abdomen.
Molluscum bumps can become infected and you may need antibiotics
How do I get tested?
Go to your family doctor, STD, or Family Planning Clinic if you notice unusual bumps, especially around the genitals.
How is molluscum contagiosum treated?
The bumps usually go away on their own in 6 to 12 months. Very rarely, some may stay for up to 4 years.
Molluscum can be treated with liquid nitrogen, which is put on the bump(s).
They can also be removed with a small instrument called a curette or with a laser.
How can I prevent molluscum contagiosum from spreading?
Abstinence (not having sex) may be your best choice.
Do not pick, squeeze, or have the bumps, as this will spread them.
Wash your hands if you have touched the bumps.
Practice safer sex. Always use condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Use a dental dam during oral sex on women.
Do not share sex toys.
Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
Ask your partner about his or her sexual history.
Get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) before having any sexuality activity with a new partner
If you think that you have been infected with an STI, see a healthcare provider.
Do not have sex with an infected person. You cannot tell just by looking if someone has the infection.
Get education, guidance, and support.
Sexual Decision Making
You have the right to choose whether or not to have sexual intercourse.
If you choose to have sex, be sure to protect yourself from pregnancy and STIs.
Talk to your partner about these choices before you have sex!
Copyright & Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. If you have specific questions, please consult your doctor or appropriate health care professional.
The Health Link Alberta website is responsible ONLY for the content that is posted on Your Health. External website links have been reviewed and are credible; however, some information may differ from content on Your Health.
