Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum Contagiosum Testing and Treatment in Nottingham

Serving: Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Mansfield, Sheffield and the wider Midlands area

Expert Molluscum Contagiosum Testing in Nottingham

At Park Private Clinic, we provide comprehensive Molluscum Contagiosum Testing in Nottingham for adults concerned about this common viral skin condition. Our experienced medical team offers confidential consultations, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment options in a discreet, non-judgemental environment.

Located in the heart of Nottingham city centre, our clinic serves patients across Nottinghamshire, including Derby, Leicester, and Mansfield, with same-day appointments available seven days a week.

What Is Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), a member of the poxvirus family. The condition manifests as small, raised, pearl-like bumps on the skin, typically 2-5mm in diameter. These lesions are usually flesh-coloured or slightly pink, with a characteristic dimple or pit in the centre.

Whilst commonly recognised as a childhood condition spread through skin-to-skin contact during play, bathing, or bed-sharing, molluscum contagiosum also affects adults. In adults, the virus is frequently transmitted through sexual contact, making it a concern within sexual health services.

Over 17,000 cases are diagnosed annually in UK genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics, with approximately 12,000 cases in men and 5,000 in women. These figures highlight the importance of professional Molluscum Contagiosum Testing when symptoms appear.

How Is Molluscum Contagiosum Transmitted?

The virus spreads through:

Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
Sexual contact (in adults, particularly when lesions appear in the genital area)
Contaminated objects such as towels, clothing, or gym equipment
Self-inoculation by touching lesions and then touching other parts of your body

The incubation period typically ranges from 2 to 8 weeks, though it can extend up to 6 months. This means you may not develop symptoms immediately after exposure.

Recognising the Symptoms

Molluscum contagiosum lesions can appear anywhere on the body, though the location often indicates how the infection was acquired:

In adults with sexually transmitted infection:

Genital area (penis, vulva, vagina)
Inner thighs
Lower abdomen
Buttocks

General locations:

Face and neck
Arms and hands
Trunk
Legs

The bumps are generally painless but may become itchy or irritated. In some cases, the surrounding skin may become red and inflamed. Scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infection and further spread of the virus.

Professional Molluscum Contagiosum Testing at Park Private Clinic

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management. At our Nottingham clinic, Molluscum Contagiosum Testing involves:

Clinical Examination

Our experienced doctor will conduct a thorough visual examination of the affected areas. The characteristic appearance of molluscum lesions—small, dome-shaped papules with central dimpling—usually allows for confident diagnosis without invasive testing.

Dermoscopy

In cases where diagnosis is uncertain, we may use dermoscopy (skin surface microscopy) to examine the lesions more closely and distinguish them from other skin conditions.

Biopsy (Rare Cases)

Whilst rarely necessary, a small skin sample may be taken if the diagnosis remains unclear or if there are concerns about other conditions.

Comprehensive Sexual Health Screening

If your molluscum contagiosum appears to be sexually transmitted, we recommend comprehensive STI screening. Many sexually transmitted infections can be asymptomatic, and testing ensures your complete sexual health is assessed. Most results are available within 24 hours.

Effective Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment Options

At Park Private Clinic, we offer several proven Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment approaches:

Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)

Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the lesions, causing them to blister and fall off over the following days. This is one of the most effective treatments, particularly for small numbers of lesions. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.

Curettage

This minor surgical procedure involves physically removing the lesions using a small, sharp instrument called a curette. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and typically leaves minimal scarring.

Chemical Treatment

Topical solutions containing potassium hydroxide or other chemical agents can be applied to dissolve the lesions gradually over several weeks.

Watchful Waiting

In cases where lesions are not causing significant discomfort and there are no concerns about transmission, the immune system may clear the infection naturally over 6-18 months. However, this approach requires careful consideration of infection control to prevent spread to partners.

Choice of Treatment

Your doctor will discuss the most appropriate Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment based on:

Number and location of lesions
Your symptoms and discomfort level
Risk of transmission to partners
Your personal preferences
Your overall health status

Why Choose Park Private Clinic for Molluscum Contagiosum Testing in Nottingham?

Confidential, Professional Care

We understand that discussing sexual health concerns requires sensitivity and discretion. Our clinic provides a completely confidential service in a professional, non-judgemental environment.

Experienced Medical Team

All consultations and treatments are performed by our highly experienced doctor who specialises in sexual health and dermatological conditions.

Rapid Results

We offer same-day appointments and fast-track testing, with most sexual health screening results available within 24 hours.

Convenient Central Location

Our clinic at 16 Regent Street is easily accessible in Nottingham city centre, serving patients throughout Nottinghamshire and the surrounding areas.

Comprehensive Services

Beyond Molluscum Contagiosum Testing and Treatment, we provide complete sexual health screening, contraception advice, and treatment for all sexually transmitted infections.

Preventing Transmission of Molluscum Contagiosum

Whilst you have active lesions, take these precautions:

Avoid sexual contact until all lesions have completely resolved
Don’t share towels, clothing, or bedding
Cover lesions with waterproof dressings when swimming
Avoid scratching or picking at the bumps
Wash hands thoroughly after touching affected areas
Inform sexual partners so they can seek testing if needed

How Can Sexually Transmitted Infections Be Avoided?

Reducing your risk of sexually transmitted infections requires awareness and proactive measures:

Limit sexual partners – fewer partners reduces infection risk
Practise safe sex – use condoms consistently and correctly
Avoid casual sexual encounters, particularly under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Get regular sexual health screening, especially when entering new relationships
Seek early treatment – most sexually transmitted infections are curable when diagnosed and treated promptly

Book Your Molluscum Contagiosum Testing Appointment Today

Don’t let concerns about molluscum contagiosum go unaddressed. Early professional assessment and treatment can prevent complications and stop the spread of infection.