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Genital wartsPublished by Bupa's health information team, March 2008. This factsheet is for people who have genital warts or who would like information about them. Genital warts are caused by certain strains (types) of the human papilloma virus. In the UK, genital warts are the most common viral infection diagnosed in genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics. They mainly affect sexually active people under 25.
About genital wartsGenital warts are fleshy growths found on or around the genitals or anus. They occur if you are infected with the human papilloma virus (HPV). There are over 100 types of HPV which cause genital warts. Types 6 and 11 are most common and cause about nine in 10 infections. The types which cause warts on the hands and feet don't cause genital warts. HPV attacks the epithelial (surface) cells in the skin causing them to multiply abnormally so a wart appears on or around the penis, vagina or anus. The warts are often hard on dry hairy skin or soft on moist hairless skin. You may have several warts clustered together or just one. Symptoms of genital wartsYou may have the type of HPV that causes genital warts but you may have no symptoms. If you do have symptoms, you will have genital warts. In women, they usually appear on the inside or outside of the vagina, on the cervix (neck of the womb) or around the anus. The genital warts usually occur on the tip or shaft of the penis or around the anus in men. Sometimes they can also be found in your mouth, nose or throat. The genital warts are generally painless but can itch and may bleed or become inflamed. You may have blood in your urine or from your anus because the genital warts inside your urethra (the tube for passing urine) or rectum may bleed. Complications of genital wartsSome types of HPV, particularly 16 and 18 are linked to cervical cancer. However, most women who get genital warts don't increase their risk of developing cervical cancer. This is because they are infected by a type of HPV not linked to cervical cancer. Causes of genital wartsGenital warts are transmitted by skin to skin contact during unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex and by sharing sex toys. If you have genital contact with an infected partner and don't have sex you can still get the HPV. The virus can be passed even if the infected person has no symptoms. People who have more than one sexual partner or frequently change sexual partners are more at risk. Diagnosis of genital wartsIf you think you may have genital warts you can see your GP or visit a genitourinary medicine (GUM) or sexual health clinic. You can contact a GUM or sexual health clinic to make your own appointment. All visits are confidential and you don't have to give your real name. Details are not sent to your GP without your consent. Tests for genital warts will include a physical examination, which, for women, will be an internal examination. The appearance of the warts themselves is used to diagnose this condition. Swabs (to get cells or traces of infection) are usually taken and you may be asked for blood and urine samples. If you have genital warts, you may also have another sexually transmitted infection (STI). The samples are used to test for other STIs at the same time. Occasionally a proctoscope (flexible camera) may be used to see the inside of the rectum. This is done if you have had bleeding and warts are suspected in this area. A biopsy may be taken to confirm genital warts. A biopsy is a small sample of tissue. This will be sent to a laboratory for testing. Treatment of genital wartsGenital warts are treated according to their size and location.
You may need repeat treatments to get rid of the genital warts as they can re-occur. People who smoke may be less responsive to treatment. Treatments designed for removing warts on other parts of the body (such as feet and hands) should not be used as they are too harsh for the genital area. You may decide you don't want treatment. A third of people with genital warts find they go away without treatment after six to 12 months. Some warts can last longer. Rarely, warts can develop into cauliflower-like growths. Special considerationsPregnancyGenital warts can increase in size during pregnancy, but they don't generally cause any problems during delivery. The virus can be passed to the baby but this is unusual. The infection should clear within six weeks. You will usually be treated after delivery. Weakened immune systemIf you have a weakened immune system, such as people with advanced HIV infection (AIDS), you may not respond as well to treatment and the risk of the warts coming back is higher. Follow-up appointments will ensure your treatment is tailored to your needs. Prevention of genital wartsUsing condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex can help prevent genital warts but can't fully protect you. Reducing the number of partners reduces the risk. Your current or most recent partner may be at risk and should be contacted to prevent further spread of infection. The clinics can send anonymous notifications on your behalf if you are willing to provide details. People who are at increased risk of catching an HPV infection and other STIs, such as those who change sexual partners frequently, should consider having a check-up at the GUM clinic every few months. If you are diagnosed with genital warts, you should wait until the doctor gives you the all clear before you start having sex again. VaccineAn HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer in women may be introduced in the future as part of a national vaccine programme. This may be given to girls before they are sexually active to protect against some HPV infections. This could also prevent some genital wart infections. Help and supportIt may be difficult to come to terms with the diagnosis of genital warts. Talking with the medical professional who treats you can be helpful. In some circumstances, if you are particularly distressed, he or she may suggest you talk to a counsellor. Further information
Sources
Related topicsThis information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Dr James Quekett, Bsc, MB, ChB, MRCGP, DRCOG, DFFP, General Practitioner (GP) and GP Appraiser, Gloucestershire, and Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional. Publication date: March 2008. Expected review date: March 2010.
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