Human Papilloma Virus
Genital warts—also called venereal warts—are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus related to the one that causes common skin warts. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease, spread through sexual contact, which affects about 1 million Americans each year.
Genital warts first appear as small, painless bumps in the genital area. In women, the warts may appear on the vulva and perineal area, in the vagina and on the cervix. In men, the warts may appear on the penis, near the anus or between the penis and the scrotum. They may also appear in the mouth, on the lips, on the roof of the mouth and in the throat.
If untreated, the warts may grow and resemble tiny cauliflowers. They can also grow in large masses, and can block the vagina, urethra or anus. Genital warts also tend to grow more quickly if a person has diabetes, HIV infection, or Hodgkin's disease, or is undergoing chemotherapy or taking medication after an organ transplant.
The warts may also be too small to see, or in places such as the cervix where they aren't noticeable. HPV may cause a Pap smear to register abnormal.
It's important to visit your doctor if you suspect you have genital warts. The HPV infection can lead to cervical cancer in women and cancer of the penis in men.
It's also important to remember that just because you don't see warts on your partner, that doesn't mean he or she doesn't have HPV. A person can be infected for months or years before warts appear.
Keep in mind, too, that not all bumps are warts. Other causes for bumps that appear to be warts include secondary syphilis and hemorrhoids.
If you have genital warts, your doctor can remove them, using one of several methods, including freezing, a laser or chemicals. Although the warts can be removed, the virus will remain in your body and may cause the warts to reappear.
Genital warts pose a risk for pregnant women because they can grow quickly during pregnancy, and may bleed heavily if not removed before childbirth. A cesarean section may be necessary. If you are pregnant and have had genital warts in the past, be sure to tell your doctor about them.
Symptoms/Signs:
Warts that appear as small, flat, soft, flesh-colored bumps, or as tiny, cauliflower-like bumps; in women, they may appear on the vulva and perineal area, in the vagina and on the cervix; in men, they may appear on the penis, near the anus or between the penis and scrotum; they may also appear in the mouth, on the lips and in the throat.
Consult Your Doctor If:
You notice any warts in your genital area or suspect that you may have HPV. Your doctor will be able to confirm the diagnosis and offer treatment. In women, genital warts can lead to cancer of the cervix. In men, they can lead to cancer of the penis.
Home Care Ideas:
If you suspect that you have HPV, end all sexual contact until you have been treated.
To avoid contracting HPV, avoid having sexual relations, or have sexual relations only with someone who doesn't have the virus.
A condom can help prevent HPV, but doesn't cover all affected areas of skin.
Have regular checkups for HPV, even in the absence of symptoms, and especially if having sex with a new partner.
If you are a teen or young adult, delay having sexual relations as long as
possible. The younger people are when having sex for the first time, the more
susceptible they become to developing an STD. The risk of acquiring an STD
also increases with the number of partners over a lifetime
