Genital Warts (HPV Infection)

Genital warts are small, flesh-coloured or grey growths on or around the genitals, caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). They are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and, while not dangerous themselves, are caused by a virus also linked to certain cancers.

• Small, flesh-coloured, grey, or pink bumps on or around the genital or anal area, which may be flat or have a cauliflower-like appearance
• Growths may occur singly or in clusters
• Itching or mild discomfort in the affected area
• Many HPV infections, including some that could cause warts, produce no visible symptoms at all

• Caused by certain low-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.
• Different, higher-risk HPV types (not typically the ones causing visible warts) are linked to cervical and other cancers, which is why HPV vaccination and cervical screening remain important regardless of wart history.

• Usually diagnosed clinically based on the characteristic appearance of the growths on examination.
• Further testing is not usually needed for typical, visible genital warts.

Visible warts can be treated with a topical medicine applied directly to the growths, or with an in-clinic procedure such as freezing (cryotherapy) or other removal techniques, depending on the number, size, and location of the warts.

Treatment removes visible warts but does not eliminate the underlying HPV infection, which the immune system typically clears over time on its own; warts can occasionally recur even after successful treatment.

Some warts may resolve on their own without treatment, though many people choose treatment to address symptoms or appearance.

Sexual partners may also carry the virus even without visible warts, so partner examination and general STI screening may be discussed.

• HPV vaccination, ideally before the start of sexual activity, protects against the HPV types most commonly responsible for genital warts as well as cervical cancer.
• Consistent condom use reduces, though does not eliminate, the risk of transmission, since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom.
• Regular cervical cancer screening remains important for women, regardless of genital wart history, since screening targets different, higher-risk HPV types.
• Avoid sexual contact with visible warts present until treated, to reduce transmission risk to partners.