HEALTH EDUCATION
HPV (genital warts)
What it is
HPV stands for human papilloma virus. There are more than 100 types of
HPV. Some produce warts — plantar warts on the feet, common hand
warts, juvenile warts, butcher's warts, and genital warts.
About 30 types of HPV can infect the genital area — the vulva, vagina,
cervix, rectum, anus, penis, or scrotum.
• Some types may cause genital warts.
• Some types may cause changes in cells. These types increase the risk of cervical and certain other cancers.
• Most types seem to have no harmful effect at all.
How it’s spread
Genital warts are spread by oral, vaginal, or anal sex and sex play with
an infected person.
How it’s treated
Visible genital warts can be removed by medications the patient applies,
or by treatments performed by a health care provider. Some individuals
choose to not have treatment to see if the warts will disappear on their
own, however untreated warts can also grow larger in size.
No treatment for genital warts is better than another, and no one treatment
is ideal for all cases. Your clinician may prescribe chemicals that can
be applied directly to warts. They may need to be frozen off (cryotherapy),
burned off (electrocauterization), or removed with lasers or surgery.
Genital warts usually clear up after the first series of treatments.
HPV is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. Since genital
warts are a sign of having human papilloma virus (HPV), it is important
for women who have warts to get a regular Pap smear to screen for cervical
cancer. Cervical cancer is often treatable when detected early.
How it’s prevented
Abstinence is the best way to avoid infection. Correct and consistent
use of condoms can also reduce the risk of infection.
If you think you have genital warts, abstain from sex and seek treatment
immediately.
What it does
Genital warts can cause bleeding and sores, which increases the risk of
HIV infection.
Genital warts indicate that a person is infected with HPV. If you or your
partner has had genital warts, be sure to get regular Pap tests to screen
for cervical cancer.
Tell your clinician if you’re pregnant and have ever had genital
warts. They can recur after treatment and can bleed heavily during delivery.
It’s also possible to transmit genital warts during delivery, which
can lead to breathing problems or developmental disabilities in newborns.
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