What are Genital Warts?

Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and is actually quite common. 

Genital warts are passed on by vaginal and anal intercourse, sharing sex toys and rarely by oral sex. This is caused by the human papillomavirus, commonly called HPV. After a person has been infected by HPV, it may take to three months (or in some cases longer) for warts to appear. Some people who have been infected never even get any warts.

What do Genital Warts Look Like?

Genital warts usually appear as small fleshy, coloured, pink or red growths in or around the groin, genital or anal areas. They can vary in size and shape. The warts may look like the small part of a cauliflower, or they may be very tiny and hard to see. They generally appear in clusters of three or four and may grow and spread rapidly. Generally, the warts are not painful, though they may cause mild pain, bleeding and itching.

What are the symptoms of Genital Warts?

HPV doesn't always have any visible symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, warts may be seen around the genital area.

In women:

• Warts can develop on the outside and inside of the vagina
• On the cervix (opening to the uterus) 
• Around the anus

In men: 

• Warts can develop on the tip of the penis 
• On the shaft of the penis 
• On the scrotum 
• Around the anus

Genital warts may also appear in the throat or mouth if you have had oral sex with an infected person.

What are the treatments for Genital Warts?

Treatments for genital warts vary from creams or liquids, surgery or freezing.

Creams or Liquids: These can usually be applied by yourself a few times a week for several weeks. These treatments can cause soreness, irritation or a burning sensation. Prescription creams are available for genital warts online, including Aldara Cream and Warticon Cream 

Surgery: This will be done by a doctor or nurse. They can either cut, burn or laser the warts off. This can cause irritation or scarring.

Freezing: A doctor or nurse will freeze the warts, usually every week for four weeks. This can cause soreness.

It may take weeks or months for treatments to work, and the warts may come back.

Will Genital Warts come back?

There is no actual cure for genital warts, so there is a possibility they will return, as the virus HPV can remain in your body for a long time. Your body may eventually get rid of the virus, and you can also be reinfected further down the line.