Genital Warts

What are the human papilloma virus (HPV) and genital warts? What are their symptoms? How are they’re passed on? How they’re treated?

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus. The virus is passed on by physical skin-to-skin contact with the warts.

Warts are small fleshy growths, bumps or skin changes that appear on or around your genital or anal area as well as inside the vagina and anus. They are usually painless but can vary in size and amount. The longer they are left untreated the larger they can get and spread.

Genital warts are diagnosed by a sexual health professional visually looking at them.

Genital warts can be treated with creams and freezing. As it is a virus they may need numerous treatments and can grow back.

You can read more about genital warts on Terrence Higgins Trust’s website.