Genital Warts from HPV Infection

What Causes Genital Warts?

Genital warts are spread by sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact where the virus enters the body. Warts are contagious and are the most common sexually transmitted infection caused by a virus. During pregnancy or delivery the HPV virus can be passed on to the baby from an infected mother.

An increase in sexual partners, weak immune systems and damage to skin can increase one’s risk of getting a HPV infection. Touching surfaces that have been exposed to HPV without protection can increase the risk of getting HPV, such as public showers or swimming pools.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Genital Warts?

Many people with HPV never get warts. If warts do appear, they may show up within a few months after contact with the virus.

Genital warts may:

• Be found on or near the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, or anus.
• Look like:
  • Raised or flat areas
  • Small or large bumps
  • Smooth or bumpy skin
  • Burning or tenderness
  • Fluid (discharge) from the area

How Are Genital Warts Diagnosed and Treated?

Genital warts are usually diagnosed by a doctor or health care provider looking at the affected area.

Sometimes, a small sample of the wart may be tested. This is called a biopsy. The area is numbed before the sample is taken and is usually not painful. In some cases, more testing may be recommended for other STIs.

What to Expect

• HPV cannot be cured or removed from the body. Treatments can remove genital warts, but they may come back. Even if warts are gone, HPV can still be spread to others.
• In many cases, the body’s immune system fights the virus over time. Some people may clear the virus on their own
• HPV includes many different types. The types that cause most genital warts are different from the types that can cause cervical cancer and other cancers.
• Warts can feel uncomfortable and may cause worry or embarrassment. These feelings are normal.
• Talk with your doctor or health care provider about treatment and any of your concerns.

Treatment

Not all genital warts need treatment. If warts are small, not painful, and not bothering you, a doctor or health care provider can safely monitor them. Tell your doctor or health care provider if you are or think you may be pregnant.

Treatment options include:

• Skin (topical) medicine: Medicine is applied directly to the warts. Sometimes you apply it at home. Other times, a nurse or doctor applies it in the office. These medicines may cause pain, burning, or irritation.
• Freezing: The doctor freezes the warts with a special medicine. This may need to be done more than once and may cause discomfort.
• Surgery or laser removal: If there are many warts, they may be removed with surgery or a laser. This can cause pain, scarring, or irritation.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Call your doctor or health care provider if:

• You notice new bumps or growths.
• Warts bleed, hurt, or bother you.
• You need or would like STI testing.

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