Genital Warts

What Is It?

Genital warts are a form of sexually transmitted disease (STD),[/url] caused by a subtype of the same virus that causes other warts. This virus is the human papilloma virus (HPV). Genital warts also are known as condyloma acuminate or venereal warts. They can develop anywhere near the vagina, cervix, genitals or rectum. Genital warts are spread through sexual activities, and can affect both men and women.

Because genital warts can take six months to develop, you can have the infection without having any symptoms. Human papilloma virus also causes virtually all cases of cervical cancer worldwide. The subtypes that are most likely to cause cancer are different from those that usually cause warts. However, many people are infected with more than one subtype. Therefore, people with genital warts are more likely to be infected with a cancer-causing virus as well.

Symptoms

Genital warts appear on moist surfaces, especially at the entrance of the vagina and rectum in women. In men and women, they can appear anywhere in the genital or anal area. They may be small, flat, flesh-colored bumps or tiny, cauliflower-like bumps. Individual warts usually measure 1 millimeter to 2 millimeters in diameter, but clusters can be quite large. In some cases, warts can be so small that you can't see them. Genital warts may not cause any symptoms, or they may cause itching, burning, tenderness or pain.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and about your sexual habits and any prior episodes of STDs. Your doctor will then examine you to look for evidence of genital warts. A vinegar-like solution placed on the skin turns the warts white and makes diagnosis easier. Other diagnostic tests may include:

• Tissue biopsy — A small piece of tissue is removed and examined in a laboratory.
• Colposcopy — An instrument called a colposcope is used to magnify and inspect possible warts in the vagina and on the cervix.
• Papanicolaou (Pap) smear

All sex partners also should be screened for the infection.

Expected Duration

Genital warts may go away on their own or with treatment, or they may last for years. It is common for genital warts to return after they are removed.

Prevention

The best way to prevent genital warts is to avoid sex or have sex with only one uninfected partner. Using condoms also may help to prevent infection. However, condoms can't always cover all affected skin. Factors that increase your risk of becoming infected include: