Genital Warts



Genital wart is a condition where there is an occurrence of fleshy growth,skin changes or bumpy skin appearing around the genital or perineal area. These are quite common and occurs as a result of viral skin infection that is caused by the human papillomavirus. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a family of more than 100 different strains of viruses and not a single one.

  • Infection with HPV does not exhibit any visible symptoms. Almost 90% of the cases of genital warts are caused by two main strains of the virus, which are type 6 and type 11. Other strains of HPV are responsible for cervical cancer.
  • GGenital warts are spread during vaginal or anal intercourse. However, penetrative sex is not mandatory to pass on the infection as HPV can be easily spread by contact with the skin. Warts can also come forth even after an year of contact with someone who has HPV.
  • The virus is passed on when warts are present in the person spreading the infection, however, there is a possibility that it can infect even before its development.
  • Genital Warts can be get rid of with the help of various forms of treatments. various medicines that are directly applied to genital warts are chosen on the basis of where the warts are located. Some prescription for genital warts treatments can easily be used at your home’s comfort, while others should be applied by your health care provider. Apart from the use of medicines, freezing is another treatment option for removing genital warts This method of treatment is termed as cryotherapy. The other treatment option is burning off genital warts that are also called electrocauterization.
  • Eventually, they can be removed with the help of surgery and lasers. In certain cases, they can also be treated with the help of injections of interferon.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Genital Warts?

Understanding the symptoms and seeking timely medical guidance can contribute to effective management and treatment of genital warts. If you suspect you have genital warts or are concerned about your sexual health, consulting with a doctor is recommended for personalized advice and appropriate interventions.

Genital warts, a manifestation of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, present with distinctive symptoms that can vary in appearance and location. While HPV itself may not always exhibit visible signs, genital warts can cause notable changes in the skin around the genital or perineal area. Here are three common symptoms associated with genital warts:

  • Fleshy Growth and Skin Changes

Genital warts often appear as fleshy growths or skin changes in the genital or perineal region. These growths can range from small, raised bumps to larger, clustered masses.

The texture may vary, and they might have a cauliflower-like appearance. The color can range from flesh-toned to pink or red.

  • Bumpy Skin Texture

The affected area may develop a bumpy or rough skin texture, indicating the presence of genital warts.

These bumps can be individually noticeable or appear in clusters, contributing to the overall texture changes.

What Are The Common Concerns about Genital Warts:

Do Genital Warts Go Away?

Genital warts can exhibit varying outcomes. In some cases, the immune system can naturally clear the HPV infection, leading to the disappearance of warts over time. However, this process is not guaranteed, and some individuals may require medical intervention for wart removal.

Should I Worry if I Have Genital Warts?

While genital warts can be a cause for concern due to their association with HPV, it's essential to approach the situation with awareness and proactive healthcare. Genital warts are treatable, and medical options such as topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), electrocauterization (burning), surgery, lasers, and interferon injections can be employed based on the severity and location of the warts.