Bodies

Genital warts are caused by a virus (human papilloma virus). Genital warts are caused by a virus which is passed on from direct skin to skin contact during sexual intercourse with an infected partner. Symptoms include: usually painless warts (cauliflower-like lumps) on and around the genital area, and in some cases the anus A person with genital warts is carrying a virus. They are therefore infectious even if the warts are not visible. In women untreated genital warts may cause a cervical infection and increase the risk of cervical cancer.

Genital warts are caused by a virus that can still be present on the skin even if the warts are not. This means that the virus can still be transferred by skin contact even if the warts may not be present. There is currently no cure or vaccination for the wart virus but there are treatments available. Treatments remove infected cells but do not get rid of the virus from the skin.

Health effects

Genital warts are small lumps which have an irregular cauliflower like surface. The colour and shape vary depending on their location. Sometimes the warts cause irritation and itching.

The virus that causes genital warts is similar to the one that causes warts elsewhere. Intimate contact of moist surfaces is ideal for the transmission of genital warts which are extremely contagious. The virus is also easily transmitted when the skin is broken.

What to look for...

Genital warts are relatively easy to detect as lumps on the genital area. On women, the vulva and the perineum (area between the vaginal opening and the anus) are the areas most affected. They also appear on the vagina, cervix and anus.

In men, the warts most often appear on the head of the penis, foreskin and urethral opening. They may also appear on the shaft of the penis, scrotum and anus.

Many people who may have the virus that causes genital warts show no symptoms.

Prevention

Genital warts can be treated, however, there is a tendency for the warts to reappear. Your medical practitioner can recommend the best method to use including freezing/burning them off or medications.

Treatment

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid direct contact with them, and condoms will reduce the risk of infection.

For further sexual health information visit the NSW Health Sexual Health page.