Genital Warts – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

What Are Genital Warts?

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Almost all sexually active people will get at least one type of HPV during their lifetime.

These warts appear on the moist tissues of the genital area. They often look like:

  • Small, flesh-colored bumps
  • Growths with a cauliflower-like appearance
  • Sometimes too tiny to see without magnification

HPV comes in many strains. Some cause genital warts, while others can lead to more serious conditions like cancer. The good news is that vaccines now exist that protect against several harmful HPV strains.

HPV is transmitted through sexual contact. Using protection during sexual activity can reduce the risk, but doesn’t eliminate it completely.

Signs of Genital Warts

Genital warts can appear in different places on the body. For people with vulvas, they might grow on the vulva, inside the vagina, or on the cervix. They can also appear between the genitals and anus, or inside the anal canal.

For people with penises, these warts might develop on the penis tip or shaft, or on the scrotum. Anyone can get them around or inside the anus.

These warts may look like small bumps that are skin-colored or slightly darker. Sometimes, several warts grow close together, creating a shape that resembles a cauliflower. You might notice:

  • Tiny bumps in your genital area
  • Itching or discomfort
  • Bleeding during sexual activity

Some warts are too small or flat to see with the naked eye. In rare cases, people with weakened immune systems might develop large clusters of warts.

When to Get Medical Help

If you or your partner notices any unusual bumps or growths in the genital area, see a healthcare provider. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, even if they don’t cause pain or discomfort.

Causes

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of warts. Over 40 different HPV strains can affect genital areas.

Genital warts spread primarily through sexual contact with an infected person. It’s important to know that even tiny, invisible warts can transmit the infection to sexual partners.

Risk Factors

Most sexually active people will get genital HPV at some point in their lives. Several factors can increase your chance of infection:

  • Not receiving the HPV vaccine.
  • Sexual practices, like not using condoms or having multiple partners.
  • History of STIs (sexually transmitted infections).
  • Sexual activity with partners whose histories are unknown.
  • Early sexual activity in your teenage years.
  • Weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV or medications after an organ transplant.

Your risk increases with the number of factors that apply to you.

Complications

HPV infections can cause serious health issues. A primary concern is the issue of cancer. HPV has strong links to cervical cancer and can also lead to cancers of the vulva, anus, penis, and throat.

Not all infections develop into cancer, but regular Pap tests are essential for women, especially those with high-risk HPV types. Pregnancy can bring challenges for those with HPV.

Warts may grow larger during pregnancy, sometimes making urination difficult. Large warts on the vaginal wall can affect the natural stretching needed during childbirth. In some cases, these warts might bleed when stretched during delivery.

In very rare situations, babies born to people with genital warts may develop warts in their throats. This serious complication might require surgery to keep the baby’s airway open and functioning properly.

Ways to Prevent Genital Warts

HPV Vaccines

The HPV vaccine provides strong protection against the virus types that cause genital warts. Health experts recommend routine HPV vaccination for children aged 11–12. It can also be given as early as age 9. Getting vaccinated before any sexual activity offers the best protection.

For children under 15, only two doses are needed, given 6–12 months apart. This includes:

  • 9- to 10-year-olds
  • 11–12 year olds (ideal age)
  • 13-14-year-olds

People who start the vaccine series at ages 15 through 26 need three doses. For this schedule:

  • The second dose should be 1 to 2 months after the first.
  • The third dose should be administered 6 months after the second.

Catch-up vaccination is recommended for all people through age 26 who haven’t been fully vaccinated. Adults between 27 and 45 may also benefit from the vaccine in some cases.

Most vaccine side effects are mild and may include:

  • Soreness at the injection site
  • Headaches
  • Low-grade fever
  • Mild flu-like symptoms

In addition to vaccination, reducing the number of sexual partners can significantly decrease your risk. Having one mutually monogamous partner lowers the chance of HPV exposure.

Condoms offer some protection against HPV, but they don’t completely prevent it because the virus can affect areas not covered by a condom. Gardasil 9 is the HPV vaccine available in the United States for people ages 9–45.

Other HPV vaccines may be available in different countries. Your healthcare provider can help determine the right vaccination schedule based on your age and health needs.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.