Genital Wart Q&A

What are Genital Warts (HPV Warts)?

Genital Warts are skin growths that occur in the genital region and around the anus. They are caused by certain subtypes of the Human Papilloma Virus, known more commonly as HPV.

While there are more than 100 subtypes of HPV, types 6 and 11 are the most common cause of genital warts. Other subtypes can cause warts of different parts of the body such and the feet and hands. Type 16 and 18 are more closely associated with cervical cancer.

According to the CDC, 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV and 14 million people become infected every year. HPV infection is so common that at some point in life, nearly all sexually active men and women are exposed to a strain of HPV.

How do I get Genital Warts?

Genital warts are passed directly from skin to skin contact during sexual interactions most commonly during vaginal or anal intercourse. HPV does not require fluid transfer for transmission; therefore, condoms are not effective in preventing transmission. HPV can be passed from one individual to another even when one partner does not have any active signs or symptoms of genital warts.

What are the symptoms of Genital Warts?

Genital warts can be found on the mouth or genital areas including the penis, scrotum, vagina, vulva, cervix, and rectum. Genital warts typically appear as small raised lesions or bumps in the genital area. They can grow to larger lesions with varying appearances including raised, flat, or cauliflower-like. Genital warts commonly occur after a few weeks or months with an infected individual. Warts can resolve spontaneously, remain the same, or increase in size and number.

In most instances, genital warts are painless and asymptomatic, however, in some people, genital warts can cause bleeding, itching, or even urethral obstruction. Although genital warts can grow on any individual infected with HPV, they grow more rapidly on individuals with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, individuals on chemotherapy, or those taking immunosuppressant medications for an organ transplant.

How do I know if I have Genital Warts?

Genital warts can be diagnosed by their common appearance on the skin, however, only your health care provider, specifically a Board Certified Dermatologist, can accurately diagnose genital warts. Remember that all small bumps in the genital region are not necessarily genital warts. Bumps may represent benign skin tags, penile papules, and other non-HPV lesions. Dr. Zito will sometimes send a small biopsy on the initial presentation of a patient with a suspicious genital lesion to confirm the diagnosis of an HPV-related genital wart.