GENITAL WARTS

Genital Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are found on or around the penis, anus or vagina. There have been more than 90 HPV types identified, approximately one third of which are sexually acquired and live predominantly in the genital tissues. Genital Warts are the most common sexually transmitted infection diagnosed in GUM clinics in the UK.

Genital Warts are spread through unprotected vaginal or anal sexual intercourse or genital contact with an infected partner. It is possible for warts to spread to the area around the anus, without having anal sex.

Signs and Symptoms

If you have been infected with the wart virus, it can take from between 1 and 3 months for warts to appear on your genitals. Some people infected with HPV will have visible warts, whereas others will show no sign of infection.

Women may notice pinkish/white small lumps or larger cauliflower-shaped lumps on the inside and outside of the vagina and/or the cervix, or around the anus.

Men may have pinkish/white small lumps or larger cauliflower-shaped lumps on the tip or the shaft of the penis, on the scrotum or around the anus.

These Genital Warts may itch, but in general are painless.

Not everyone who comes into contact with the wart virus develops Genital Warts.

Are Genital Warts Serious?

If left untreated, Genital Warts usually disappear, but this can take months.

Prevention of Genital Warts

The only way to ensure the individual does not become infected with HPV is to avoid direct contact with the virus. Sexually active men and women reduce the risk of infection by reducing their numbers of partners and by practising protected sex, i.e. using a condom during sexual intercourse. Condoms are the only form of contraception that offer some protection against transmitted Genital Warts, but even then, the protection is incomplete.

Diagnosis of Genital Warts

Genital Warts are usually diagnosed by their appearance. They may not be easy to recognise and the person making the diagnosis should be experienced in recognising and treating Genital Warts.

Treatment of Genital Warts

If left alone, Genital Warts will eventually go away on their own. This can take months or even years. Many people infected with HPV find the warts, unsightly and embarrassing, so seek treatment to get rid of them.

Genital Warts are treated according to their size and location. Treatment can consist of:

The use of caustic agents such as Podophyllin or Trichloracetic Acid
Freezing with liquid nitrogen
Surgical removal under anaesthetic

There is no immediate cure, and treated genital warts may recur

It is possible to have more than one sexually transmitted infection (STI) at the same time. It is advisable to have a full check up in the GUM clinic where you can be checked for a number of STI's.

DisabledGo Information

Terms & Conditions