Symptoms

Just like on other parts of the body genital warts are easily recognisable. They are small bumps, which may grow into little clusters shaped like a cauliflower. They often are flesh-coloured and soft to the touch. Usually they grow in more than one place and may cluster in large masses. Genital warts usually are painless but may itch. You might see or feel genital warts in your vagina, vulva, cervix, penis, anus, or urethra. Sometimes, it is possible to have them in your mouth, on the lips, tongue and palate, or in the throat.

 
 

Vaginal, anal and oral sex play spread genital warts. Genital warts often grow more rapidly during pregnancy or when a person's immune system is weakened by diabetes, HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy.

How they are spread?

Like all STDs, having sexual intercourse spreads genital warts. People should stop having intimate contact as soon as they think they have genital warts. Warts usually develop six weeks to six months after infection. But it may take longer. If they are discovered, seek treatment immediately.

 

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How are genital warts diagnosed?

Only clinicians can correctly diagnose genital warts. In women, genital warts are often seen during a pelvic exam. Unfortunately, men are seldom examined for a sexually transmitted infection, unless they complain of symptoms. Women and men with more than one sex partner - or whose partners have more than one sex partner - should have regular exams for sexually transmitted infections, including genital warts.

 
 

How are genital warts treated?

Very often, genital warts fade away by themselves. But sometimes they need to be removed. Warts can be removed with various treatments. There are several chemicals that can be applied directly to genital warts. If not treated, they can disappear, stay the same, or grow in size and in number. Genital warts can cause sores and bleeding - which can increase the risk of HIV infection.

How can I avoid getting genital warts?

  • Abstinence is the only 100 percent-effective way to avoid infection.

  • Use condoms every time. They can reduce the risk of genital warts.

  • Protect your immune system with a healthy lifestyle.

  • Stop smoking. Smokers may be more likely to develop genital warts than non-smokers may.

 
 

Is there a cure for genital warts?

Most people are cleared of warts by the first series of treatments. Warts recur for some people, however, during several months after treatment - especially if they smoke cigarettes. And some people continue to have recurrences after long periods of time.

Where to get tested?

Health centres, STI clinics, doctors, and health departments offer testing, treatment, and counselling.