Genital Warts

Genital warts are caused by infection with specific types of HPV, most commonly types 6 and 11. These are spread through close skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Not everyone exposed to HPV will develop warts, as it depends on individual immune responses.

The symptoms include small, flesh-coloured or grey lumps in the genital area, which may feel itchy, uncomfortable, or occasionally painful. Some people notice clusters of warts forming a cauliflower-like shape. In some cases, genital warts may be so small they are hard to see.

The treatment usually involves topical creams or solutions that help to destroy the wart tissue, such as podophyllotoxin (Warticon) or imiquimod (Aldara). In some cases, a healthcare professional may recommend procedures like freezing (cryotherapy) or surgical removal. Treatment helps to clear warts, but it does not eliminate the HPV virus itself.

Without treatment, genital warts can last for months or even years, though some may eventually disappear on their own as the immune system clears the virus. With the right treatment, warts may start to improve within weeks. However, recurrences are common because the virus can remain in the body.

Most warts, including genital warts, are caused by different strains of HPV. However, the types of HPV that cause common hand or foot warts are not the same as those that cause genital warts. This means genital warts are specifically linked to sexually transmitted HPV strains.

Other skin conditions like skin tags, molluscum contagiosum, or pearly penile papules can sometimes be mistaken for genital warts. These are usually harmless and unrelated to HPV. If you are unsure about a new bump or growth, it’s best to get checked by a healthcare professional.

If untreated, genital warts may remain the same, grow larger, or spread to new areas. They are not usually dangerous but can be uncomfortable, itchy, or affect self-confidence. Treating them helps manage symptoms and reduce the risk of passing them to others.

The most effective way is to use prescribed treatments such as creams or solutions that target wart tissue. Maintaining a healthy immune system may also help the body fight HPV more effectively. Using condoms can reduce the risk of spreading HPV, though they do not provide complete protection.

Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the UK. Thousands of new cases are diagnosed each year, particularly among people in their late teens and twenties. The HPV vaccination programme has helped to reduce rates in younger populations.

In the early stages, genital warts may appear as tiny, flat, or slightly raised bumps on the skin. They are often small and painless, making them easy to overlook. Over time, they can grow larger, multiply, or form clusters.

When treatment is working, warts often shrink, turn white, or start to flake and fall off. This can take a few days to weeks depending on the method used. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to prevent recurrence.

Genital warts are usually small, flesh-coloured, and may feel rough or cauliflower-like. Other bumps may be smooth, soft, or caused by different conditions. A healthcare professional can make a proper diagnosis through examination.

Friction does not cause genital warts, though it can irritate existing warts and make them more noticeable. The true cause is infection with HPV, which is transmitted through sexual contact. Friction may sometimes cause harmless bumps or skin changes that could be mistaken for warts.

Outbreaks can be triggered by a weakened immune system, stress, illness, or even hormonal changes. Since HPV remains in the body, warts may reappear after periods of remission. Managing overall health and completing prescribed treatments can help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.