Genital Warts
 
  » What are genital warts?
» How common are genital warts?
» How are genital warts diagnosed?
» How are genital warts treated?
 
  What are genital warts?

Genital warts are white or flesh-colored growths that are most often caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts most often appear on the external genitals or near the anus of females and males. Although less common, genital warts can appear inside the vagina and on the cervix. Genital warts can sometimes cause symptoms like burning, itching, or pain. The types of HPV that cause genital warts are different from the types that can cause cervical cancer.
 
How common are genital warts?

Genital warts are very common. Survey data estimate that approximately 10% of men and women will have genital warts in their lifetime.

Other consequences
of HPV include
Genital
Warts


Genital warts may appear within weeks or months after sexual contact with an infected person.

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  How are genital warts diagnosed?

A healthcare professional can usually recognize external genital warts just by seeing them. Internal genital warts are sometimes discovered in follow-up visits after an abnormal Pap test.
  How are genital warts treated?

Genital warts can disappear on their own without treatment. However, when they are first discovered, there is no way to tell if they will disappear or grow larger. Depending on the size and location of the genital warts, there are several treatment options. A healthcare professional may choose to apply a special cream or solution to the warts. Some genital warts can be removed by either freezing, burning, or using a laser treatment. If the genital warts do not respond to these treatments, a healthcare professional may perform surgery to remove them.

There is a chance that genital warts can reappear after treatment, because the types of HPV that cause them may still be present.
  Genital warts are just one consequence of HPV infection. Learn more about Human Papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer, abnormal cervical cells, and other consequences of HPV in the other sections of this site. Talk to your healthcare professional for even more information.
  This site is intended for residents of The Philippines.