Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a common sexually transmitted virus. There are more than 60 known strains of HPV. Some of them cause genital warts. Genital warts are bumps of various sizes on the skin of the genitals. They are uncommon before puberty or after menopause. They can grow rapidly in the presence of heavy sweating, poor hygiene, or during pregnancy. Infection can occur without a person developing warts. HPV infection may also cause abnormal cell growth or cancer of the cervix.

Genital warts can occur in any sexually active person. Sometimes they pass from an infected mother to her baby at birth. Warts usually appear on moist surfaces about 2 months after exposure. They start as tiny red or pink swellings that grow. They may grow up to 4 inches. If several grow in the same area, they may appear like a cauliflower. If infected with bacteria, they take on a foul odor. Sometimes warts develop in the urethra. However, most patients report no symptoms. Many are unaware of the warts until discovery during a physical examination. A few complain of itching or pain.

Treatment aims to remove the warts. There is no effective therapy to get rid of the viral infection completely. Treatment of small warts is usually an acid mixture applied directly on them. One should never use this acid during pregnancy. One must also avoid contact with eyes and healthy tissue around warts. Other methods for larger warts include freezing, laser treatment, and slicing with a hot wire. Warts often resolve on their own. On the other hand, warts may recur even after treatment.

HPV infection should be watched closely in women, even in no symptoms appear. The reason is that HPV may cause cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the second most common reproductive cancer in women. All women should have regular annual Pap tests. Women exposed to HPV should take this seriously. A Pap test can detect a cervical problem before it is actually cancer. It is much harder to treat and may be fatal after it progresses to cancer.

You can reduce your risk of HPV infection by using condoms. It also greatly reduces risk to have only one sexual partner who has no other partners. If you or your sexual partner have symptoms of genital warts, do not be embarrassed to consult your health care provider.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go