Overview

Genital warts are caused by a virus called the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI) because the virus can be spread by sexual contact. The warts often look like small, fleshy bumps or flat, white patches. They can be anywhere in the genital area. You can also be infected with HPV yet not have warts that can be seen.

Genital warts often go away on their own without treatment. Some people decide to treat them because of the symptoms or the way the warts look.

There is a vaccine for HPV. If you have not had the vaccine, ask your doctor if getting the vaccine is right for you.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor gave you medicine to treat your warts at home, use the medicine exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• To reduce the itching and irritation from genital warts:
  • Keep the warts clean and dry. You may want to let the area air dry after a bath or shower. This may feel better than a towel.
  • Avoid shaving an area where warts are present. Shaving can spread the warts.
  • Do not use over-the-counter wart removal products to treat genital warts. These products are not intended for the genital area and may cause serious burns.

How can you prevent it?

Here are some ways to help prevent STIs:

• Limit your sex partners. Sex with one partner who has sex only with you can reduce your risk of getting an STI.
• Talk with your partner or partners about STIs before having sex. Find out if they are at risk for an STI. It's possible to have an STI and not know it.
• Wait to have sex with a new partner until you've each been tested.
• Don't have sex if you have symptoms of an infection or if you're being treated for an STI.
• Use a condom every time you have sex.
• If you had sex without a condom, ask your doctor if taking a preventive medicine is recommended. It may help prevent certain STIs if it's taken within 24 to 72 hours after unprotected sex.
• Don't share sex toys. But if you do share them, use a condom and clean the sex toys between each use.
• Don't feel pressure to have sex. It's okay to say "no" anytime you want to stop.
• Make sure you feel safe with your partner or partners. If you don't, talk with an adult you trust.

Vaccines are available for some STIs, such as HPV. Ask your doctor for more information.