Genital Warts: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Genital Warts: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is highly contagious, with 10% of sexually active men and women experiencing HPV at some point in their lives. The infection is most commonly diagnosed in women aged 20-25 and men aged 25-34.

For telehealth consultations or in-person STI screenings, visit TravelDoctor EU. Learn more about STI treatments and medical guidance at our conditions page. For additional resources, check out WebMD.

🔹 What Are Genital Warts?

Genital warts, also called condyloma acuminata or anogenital warts, are flesh-colored, cauliflower-like growths that appear on or near the genitals, anus, or throat due to HPV infection.

✔ Common Locations:

• On and inside the genitals (vagina, penis, scrotum, vulva)

• Around the anus and anal canal

• Inside the throat (via oral transmission)

Some HPV subtypes cause genital warts, while others increase the risk of cervical, anal, or throat cancer. A person can be infected with multiple HPV strains during their lifetime.

🔍 Symptoms of Genital Warts

✔ Small flesh-colored or gray growths resembling cauliflower
✔ Single or clustered warts, which can grow larger over time
✔ Itching, irritation, or discomfort in the genital area
✔ Bleeding or irritation during intercourse
✔ Urethral warts may cause urination difficulties

In many cases, genital warts cause no symptoms and are only noticed visually.

⚠️ Complications Linked to Genital Warts

✔ Coexisting STIs – HPV can occur alongside chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
✔ Cervical Cancer Risk – Certain HPV strains increase the risk of cervical, anal, and throat cancer.
✔ Pregnancy Concerns – Rarely, HPV can be passed to infants during childbirth.

Regular cervical screenings (Pap smears) are crucial for detecting HPV-related cancer risks.

🔬 What Causes Genital Warts?

Genital warts are caused by HPV transmission, which occurs through:

✔ Skin-to-skin contact during sex (oral, vaginal, or anal) ✔ Sharing sex toys ✔ Touching an infected area and spreading it to another body part ✔ Rare transmission from mother to baby during childbirth

HPV can remain dormant for months or years, meaning symptoms may appear long after infection.

🏥 How Are Genital Warts Diagnosed?

A doctor or sexual health specialist can diagnose genital warts by:

✔ Physical Examination – Checking the affected area for visible warts. ✔ Speculum Examination – For internal genital warts in people with a cervix. ✔ Proctoscopy or Meatoscopy – Inspecting the anus or urethra if internal warts are suspected. ✔ HPV Testing – Pap smears and HPV tests can detect high-risk HPV strains.

💊 How Are Genital Warts Treated?

Although HPV cannot be cured, treatment focuses on removing visible warts:

✔ Watchful Waiting – In 30% of cases, warts clear within 6 months; in others, they persist for up to 2 years.
✔ Prescription Creams – Medications like imiquimod or podophyllotoxin help shrink warts.
✔ Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment) – Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and remove warts.
✔ Laser or Surgical Removal – Used for large or persistent warts.
✔ STI Testing – A doctor may recommend screening for other STIs.

🛡️ How Can I Prevent Genital Warts?

✔ Condom Use – Reduces but does not eliminate the risk.
✔ HPV Vaccination – The Gardasil 9 vaccine protects against HPV strains 6 and 11 (genital warts) and 16 and 18 (cervical cancer).
✔ Avoiding Multiple Sexual Partners – Reduces HPV exposure risks.
✔ Regular STI Testing – Helps with early detection and treatment.

The HPV vaccine is available for boys and girls aged 12-13 as part of public health programs. Missed your vaccination? Ask a doctor about catch-up programs.

👩‍⚕️ When Should I See a Doctor About Genital Warts?

✔ If you suspect genital warts and need a diagnosis. ✔ For STI screening – Genital warts often co-exist with other infections. ✔ For HPV vaccination – To prevent future infections. ✔ For cervical screening – If you have a cervix and haven't been tested.

Book an appointment today at TravelDoctor EU for expert guidance.

🔎 Summary: Key Takeaways

✔ Genital warts are a common STI caused by HPV.
✔ HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sex.
✔ Many cases are asymptomatic but may present as small, cauliflower-like growths.
✔ Treatments include creams, freezing, and surgical removal.
✔ The HPV vaccine can prevent genital warts and related cancers.
✔ Routine STI testing is essential for sexual health.

❓ FAQs About Genital Warts

1. Can genital warts go away on their own?
Yes, 30% of cases clear within 6 months, but others persist without treatment.

2. Are genital warts dangerous?
While warts themselves aren’t harmful, some HPV strains can cause cervical, anal, or throat cancer.

3. How do I know if I have HPV?
Many people with HPV have no symptoms. Regular screenings help detect high-risk strains.

4. Can I get genital warts from oral sex?
Yes, HPV can spread through oral contact, leading to throat or mouth infections.

5. Can I get the HPV vaccine if I already have genital warts?
Yes! The HPV vaccine can prevent future infections from high-risk strains.

🚀 Get STI Screening & Treatment Today!

• Need a doctor’s consultation? Book a telehealth visit at TravelDoctor EU.

• Want to learn more about HPV? Visit WebMD.

• Looking for treatment options? Explore conditions treated.

Protect your sexual health—get screened and vaccinated today! 🛡️