Genital warts are a common skin condition caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on or around the genitals and anus. Some people have visible bumps, while others have no signs at all. This guide explains how genital warts spread, what they look like, how testing works, and which treatment options a healthcare provider may recommend. You will also learn practical steps to lower your risk and where to find support. Medical decisions about your care should always come from a qualified healthcare provider.
Key Takeaways
- Genital warts are caused by certain low-risk HPV types, most often HPV 6 and 11.
- HPV spreads through skin-to-skin sexual contact, even when no warts are visible.
- A healthcare provider can often diagnose genital warts with a visual exam.
- Prescription treatments can remove warts, but HPV may remain in the body.
- HPV vaccination and condom use lower risk, but they do not remove all risk.
What causes genital warts?
Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus, or HPV. There are many HPV types. The types most often linked to genital warts are called low-risk HPV, especially types 6 and 11. These types can cause warts on or around the genitals, anus, mouth, or throat. They are not the same as the high-risk HPV types that can lead to certain cancers. You can get genital warts after sexual contact with someone who has the virus. The virus enters the skin through small breaks that you may not notice. Most people with HPV never develop warts, so you cannot tell from looking at a partner whether they carry it. Genital warts are common. Many sexually active people will have HPV at some point. The virus can live in the skin for years without causing any bumps. When warts do appear, they are usually harmless. They can be uncomfortable or upsetting, but they are not a sign of poor hygiene or bad character. HPV is spread through sex, so genital warts are considered a sexually transmitted infection.
What genital warts look and feel like
- Small, flesh-colored, pink, or gray bumps.
- A single wart or a cluster that looks like a small cauliflower.
- Bumps that are raised or flat, smooth or rough.
- Mild itching, burning, or tenderness in the area.
- Bleeding during sex or when wiping.
- No symptoms at all, which is common.
How genital warts spread
Genital warts spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. They can also spread through close genital touching without penetration. You do not need to have visible warts to pass HPV to a partner. The virus can be active even when your skin looks clear. Condoms lower the risk of passing HPV, but they do not cover every area that can carry the virus. That means genital warts can still spread when a condom is used. The virus can also pass from a pregnant person to a baby during birth, though this is rare. Because HPV can stay in the body for a long time, warts may appear weeks, months, or years after contact. You may never know exactly when you got the virus. That is normal. Focus on your health now rather than on blame. If you are pregnant and have genital warts, tell your provider. They can discuss ways to lower the chance of passing HPV to your baby. Learn more about how STDs are transmitted.
Testing and diagnosis
| Situation | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Visible bumps | A healthcare provider can often diagnose genital warts by looking at the area. |
| No visible warts | There is no routine test for genital warts. Providers may test for other STDs if you have symptoms or risk factors. |
| Unclear skin changes | A provider may use a magnifying tool or take a small sample (biopsy) to rule out other conditions. |
| Routine screening | HPV tests are used for cervical cancer screening, not to diagnose genital warts. |
| Other symptoms | Testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis may be recommended based on your history. |
Treatment options
There is no cure that removes HPV from the body. Treatment focuses on removing visible warts and easing symptoms. A healthcare provider may prescribe a topical cream or gel that you apply at home. They may also apply treatments in the clinic, such as cryotherapy (freezing), acid solutions, or electrical treatment. For larger or stubborn warts, a provider may recommend minor surgery, laser treatment, or excision. Treatment can take several weeks or months, and warts may come back because the virus can stay in the skin. Do not use over-the-counter wart removers made for hands or feet on genital skin. They can cause burns and irritation. Treatments aim to clear warts, not to make HPV disappear forever. Even after warts are gone, the virus can stay inactive in your skin. It may reactivate later. This does not mean treatment failed. It means HPV can be unpredictable. Smoking may make warts harder to treat, so quitting can help. If treatments do not work or warts return, ask your provider about other choices. Only a qualified healthcare provider can recommend the right treatment for you. See STD treatment options.
Prevention and vaccination
HPV vaccination is a highly effective way to lower your risk of genital warts. The vaccine can protect against the HPV types that cause most genital warts and several cancers. It is recommended for preteens, teens, and many adults through age 26. Some adults up to age 45 may benefit after talking with a provider. Condoms and dental dams lower risk but do not cover all skin. You can also lower risk by limiting your number of sexual partners, avoiding sex when you or a partner has visible warts, and getting regular STD testing. If you have genital warts, tell current and past partners so they can decide about testing and vaccination. Talk with your provider about the right timing for vaccination. The vaccine is safe for most people. It does not treat existing warts, but it can protect you from other HPV types. Regular checkups and open conversations with partners also help. If you are unsure about your risk, learn how STD testing works. Read the HPV vaccine guide and learn more about STD prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are genital warts curable?
The warts can be treated and removed, but HPV may stay in the body. There is no cure that clears the virus completely. A healthcare provider can help you manage outbreaks.
Can genital warts go away on their own?
Sometimes the immune system clears HPV and warts disappear without treatment. In other cases, warts stay the same, grow, or return. Treatment can speed up removal and reduce symptoms.
How long after exposure do genital warts appear?
Warts may appear weeks, months, or even years after contact with HPV. Many people never develop visible warts, so the timing can be unclear.
Can I get genital warts if I used a condom?
Yes. Condoms lower risk but do not cover all skin that can carry HPV. Genital warts can spread through skin-to-skin contact that a condom does not block.