Genital warts are soft, flesh-colored or pink growths caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), usually types 6 and 11. They’re common, benign, and treatable—but can recur.
How they spread
- Skin-to-skin sexual contact (vaginal, anal, oral). Condoms reduce risk but don’t fully prevent it because warts can be on uncovered skin.
- Warts can appear weeks to months after exposure, sometimes longer.
What they look/feel like
- Small bumps or clusters that may resemble cauliflower.
- On the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, groin, or around/inside the anus; sometimes in the mouth.
- Usually painless; may itch or bleed with friction.
Diagnosis
- Usually by visual exam. A clinician may use a magnifier or apply acetic acid to highlight areas.
- Cervical warts are found on exam; screening for cervical cancer (Pap/HPV testing) follows standard guidelines.
Treatment options
Goal: remove visible warts and reduce symptoms. The virus can persist in skin, so recurrences can happen.
- At home (prescribed):
- Imiquimod cream (activates the immune system) several times weekly.
- Podofilox solution/gel (destroys wart tissue) used in cycles.
- Sinecatechins ointment (green tea extract) three times daily.
- In clinic:
- Freezing (cryotherapy), trichloroacetic acid, cautery, laser, or surgical removal.
- Most people need multiple treatments.
Important: Do not use drugstore “wart removers” meant for common hand warts on genital skin—they can burn.
Partners, pregnancy, and prevention
- Inform partners; consider STI screening.
- HPV vaccine protects against common wart-causing and cancer-causing types; recommended for preteens and catch-up through age 26, and up to 45 after shared decision-making.
- In pregnancy, some treatments are avoided; many warts can wait until after delivery unless they obstruct birth.
What to expect
- Warts are benign and often clear within 1–2 years even without treatment, but removal is often preferred.
- Recurrence is common, especially in the first year. Keep follow-up appointments.