Genital Warts (Human Papilloma Virus, HPV)
Description:
It is a virus called the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
Effects:
- Some types of the virus are associated with cervical cancer in women, so you should follow up with your doctor for a smear test
Cause:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact
- Vaginal, anal or oral sex (protected and unprotected)
Symptoms:
- The virus can be in your system for 3 weeks to 8 months (or longer) before you show symptoms
- Warts usually appear as single or more painless, fleshy growths or lumps in the genital area. They come in different shapes and sizes
- You may not have visible warts, but can still pass the virus on to your sexual partner(s)
Treatment:
- There are a few treatments available, such as freezing the warts and prescribed creams
- The type of treatment will depend on the size, location and number of warts (The virus will stay in your system, so the warts may come back)
Prevention:
- Don’t have intimate sexual contact. Using a condom is the best protection against genital warts but it not 100% effective
Source: Health Service Executive (HSE), 2007
HPSC factsheet - Genital Warts
