About Genital Warts

What Are Genital Warts?

Genital warts, also known as venereal warts or condylomata acuminata [kon-di-loh-muh uh-kyoo-muh-nah-tuhm], are small growths that develop around the genitals or anus. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common sexually transmitted infection. The warts can appear as separate growths or in clusters, and they may range in size from small (5 millimeters or less) to large masses. Genital warts are usually skin-colored or slightly darker. While there is no cure for HPV, treatment options are available to manage genital warts. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Causes Genital Warts and Who Is at Risk?

Genital warts are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) most commonly HPV types 6 and 11. HPV spreads through skin-to-skin sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus is highly transmissible, and genital warts may develop weeks, months, or even longer after exposure.

Risk factors that cannot be changed or controlled for genital warts include:

• Age: Genital warts are more common in individuals under the age of 30.
• Weakened immune systems: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, are at higher risk.

Risk factors that can be changed include:

• Sexual behavior: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk.
• Smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of developing genital warts.

It's important to note that practicing safe sex, such as using condoms, can reduce the risk of contracting HPV and developing genital warts. Regular check-ups and vaccinations against HPV can also help prevent genital warts. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

Symptoms of Genital Warts

Genital warts can look different from person to person. Some people have no visible symptoms, while others notice small bumps or clusters of bumps in the genital or anal area. The bumps may be flesh-colored, pink, brown, or grayish, and they may be flat, raised, or cauliflower-like.

Additional symptoms may occur including:

• Bleeding from the warts, especially during sexual activity
• Changes in color, such as redness, in the affected area
• Itchiness and discomfort that may worsen over time
• Vaginal discharge in women
• Enlargement or spreading of the warts

HPV vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent genital warts because it protects against HPV types 6 and 11, which cause most cases. Vaccination works best before exposure to HPV but may still benefit some people who are already sexually active; a healthcare provider can advise based on age and health history.

How Are Genital Warts Diagnosed?

To diagnose genital warts, healthcare providers commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:

• Physical examination: Healthcare providers visually inspect the genital and rectal areas for the presence of warts.
• For women, a pelvic examination may be performed to check for warts deep inside the body.
  • Colposcopy: A colposcope (a magnifying instrument) may be used to examine the cervix to get a better view of the warts that can develop in the vagina and surrounding areas.
  • Pap smear: Women may undergo a Pap smear as part of a comprehensive examination to detect other forms of genital warts.
• Acetic acid test: A mild acidic solution called acetic acid (vinegar) may be applied to the skin to make the warts more visible.
• Biopsy: Occasionally, a small sample of a visible wart may be taken and sent for analysis to confirm the diagnosis.

Additional examinations, tests or procedures may be recommended based on initial findings or individual factors. These may include:

• Anoscopy: An internal exam using an anoscope is conducted to inspect for anal warts within the anal canal.

It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Treatment Options for Genital Warts

The goals of treatment for genital warts are:

• Removal of warts: The primary goal is to remove the visible warts and improve the presenting symptoms. Various treatment options can be used to achieve this, such as:
  • Chemical removal: This involves applying prescription ointments or solutions directly to the warts to destroy them.
  • Cryotherapy: Freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen to destroy the abnormal tissue.
  • Electrocautery: Burning the warts using an electric current.
  • Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP): Cutting off the warts using a thin wire loop heated by an electric current.
• Amelioration of symptoms: Treatment aims to relieve symptoms associated with genital warts, including discomfort and cosmetic concerns.

Can genital warts go away on their own?

• Some genital warts may go away without treatment. However, treatment may be recommended if the warts cause symptoms, increase in size, or are a cosmetic concern.

Contact a healthcare provider if you notice new bumps, growths, bleeding, pain, itching, or irritation in the genital or anal area; if warts change, spread, or return after treatment; or if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or unsure whether the growths are genital warts.

While treatments can remove visible warts, they may not necessarily eradicate the HPV infection itself, and genital warts can return after treatment in some individuals. Available therapies likely reduce HPV infectivity but do not completely clear the infection.

Medication dosing (how and when medication is taken) may be affected by many factors, so it's essential to check with your healthcare provider about dosing for your individual situation. Consult with your healthcare provider or read the information provided with your medication for side effect information.