What are they?

Genital warts are caused by a virus called human papilloma virus (HPV).  The virus is very common; three out of four people who have had sex have been exposed to some type of HPV at some time.

How are they spread?

Genital warts are spread by oral, vaginal and anal sex, or genital skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.

What do genital warts look like?

Genital warts are growths or bumps that appear around the genitals, anus, or thighs.  They may be flat, or may look like cauliflower.

Sometimes people do not have any visible warts, but they may still carry HPV on normal looking genital skin.

How are they diagnosed?

Genital warts are diagnosed by a doctor visibly seeing the warts.  If you think you have warts, or have been exposed to HPV, go to a doctor or clinic.

What are the complications?

In women, a few types of HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix that may slowly lead to cancer if they are not found and treated.  That's why sexually active women should have regular Pap smears.

How are they treated?

Visible genital warts can be treated at your doctor's office or at a clinic.  Genital warts may need several treatments to be effectively removed.

What about sexual partners?

Condoms offer some protection, but HPV may be present on skin that is not covered.

Remember:

• Follow the treatment as prescribed by your doctor or clinic.  Return for follow-up visits as directed.
• Avoiding sexual contact with your sexual partner(s) while your warts are being treated may help with healing.
• Tell your partner(s) so they can be checked and treated if they have warts.
• Sexually active women should have a Pap test every year.
• Use condoms to lower the chance of getting STIs and to prevent pregnancy.
• It is possible to have more than one infection at a time, so it is important to be tested for other STIs.

If you have more questions, call the 
Sexual Health Clinic at 
748-2021
or the 
AIDS - Sexual Health Infoline at
1-800-668-2437