Genital Warts
What are genital warts?
Genital warts are flesh-colored growths that most often appear on the external genitals or near the anus of females and males. Genital warts inside the vagina and on the cervix are less common. The most common cause of genital warts is certain types of HPV.
Genital HPV, which may develop into genital warts, is transmitted through sexual activity involving genital contact. Many people are unaware that they have genital HPV and therefore may pass it on without know. After being infected, genital warts may appear within weeks, months, years, or not at all. Genital warts are very common.
A healthcare professional usually can recognize genital warts just by seeing them. Although most cases do not cause symptoms, a few cases may cause burning, itching, or pain.
How can genital warts be treated?
A special cream or solution may be applied to the warts to remove them. Freezing, burning, using a laser treatment, or surgery are alternate treatments.