Your Guide to Genital Warts: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Genital warts, a disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), may be a topic that’s uncomfortable to discuss. However, it’s essential to understand the causes and available treatments to promote awareness and encourage early detection.
 
In this guide, let’s delve into all you need to know about genital warts, shedding light on the key aspects that everyone should be aware of.

Understanding Genital Warts

Genital warts are small growths or lumps that appear on the genital areas. While they are usually asymptomatic, they may be painful depending on the location.
 
The primary cause of genital warts is certain strains of HPV, a virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact. HPV is a commonly transmitted infection of the reproductive tract and can be passed from person to person even when there are no visible symptoms of infection. Let’s further explore the link between HPV and genital warts.

HPV and Genital Warts

HPV is a commonly sexually transmitted infection, that usually resolves by itself without causing any health problems. However, there are different types of HPV, and some types are the primary cause of genital warts. For instance, 90% of anogenital warts can be linked to HPV types 6 and 11.
 
Here are some other types of HPV that have occasionally been identified in genital warts:

• HPV type 16
• HPV type 18
• HPV type 31
• HPV type 33
• HPV type 35

While there are treatment options available for genital warts, there is no cure for HPV. Removing visible warts does not necessarily reduce the transmission of the underlying HPV infection.

When to See a Doctor for Genital Warts

Your doctor will recommend the best course of action for you based on your symptoms.

• Lumps or growth around your vagina, penis or anus
• Itching or bleeding from your genitals or anus
• Genital warts in your sexual partner

Your doctor will recommend the best course of action for you based on your symptoms.

What are Some Effective Treatments for Genital Warts?

If diagnosed with genital warts, there are various genital warts treatments available. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action. Common genital wart treatment methods include:

1. Topical Medications: Genital warts medication like topical creams and ointments can be applied directly to the warts, promoting their removal.
2. Cryotherapy: This genital wart treatment method involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, causing them to fall off.
3. Surgical Removal: In cases of larger or persistent warts, a healthcare professional may recommend surgical removal.

While your treatment is ongoing, it is advisable to avoid sexual contact until the warts have gone. You should also avoid smoking, to ensure the treatment goes smoothly.
 
Even after genital warts resolve, there are chances that they may come back. This could happen weeks, or even years later. This is where preventive measures for genital warts come in.

Prevention of Genital Warts

While it’s challenging to completely eliminate the risk of contracting genital warts, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection.

1. HPV Vaccination: HPV vaccines help protect against genital warts, as well as certain cancers, such as cervical and anal cancer.
2. Safe Sex: Consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activities can help provide some protection against HPV transmission.

As we have seen, most cases of genital warts are caused by HPV. This makes HPV vaccination an important tool in genital wart prevention. It has been shown to help decrease cases of anogenital warts in multiple countries.
 
While conversations about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and genital warts are often met with hesitation or discomfort. Yet, the importance of understanding these topics cannot be overstated. With HPV being a common sexually transmitted infection1 and genital warts being one of its visible manifestations, knowledge becomes a powerful tool in prevention and early intervention.
 
Now that you know the causes and symptoms of genital warts, you can take proactive action and reach out to a trusted healthcare provider if needed. Genital warts are nothing to be ashamed of, spreading awareness about the condition can lift the stigma and pave the way for better sexual health.

FAQs

• Do genital warts affect pregnancy? 
  It is wise to consult your doctor regarding genital warts during pregnancy, especially since topical genital wart treatments like creams and ointments are not recommended during pregnancy.
• Do genital warts cause cancer? 
  Genital warts are not cancerous and they do not cause cancer. While HPV may lead to certain cancers, the strains that cause genital warts are different from the cancer-causing strains. However, HPV vaccination is recommended, to help protect against both genital warts and certain HPV-related cancers.
• Are genital warts and HIV related? 
  Individuals with HIV or other immunosuppressant conditions are more likely to develop anogenital warts, compared to those who do not have these conditions. They are also more likely to exhibit more severe cases of warts. Treatment can be more difficult for them, and recurrence is more likely, even after treatment.

Disclaimer: HPV – Human Papillomavirus. This information is intended for awareness purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor.

*Image for representation purpose only

IN-HPV-00562 – 27/2/2024 – 14/2/2026