Genital Warts

There are more than 100 different human papilloma viruses (HPVs). Some HPVs are sexually transmitted. Every year, about 5.5 million Americans are newly infected with sexually transmitted HPVs. Many of the sexually transmitted HPVs have no visible signs and go away without treatment, but some sexually transmitted HPVs can cause warts that affect skin in the genital area (considered low-risk HPV). While genital warts are not curable, there is treatment available. 

Common Symptoms:

• Warts on genitals, in the urethra, in the anus or in the throat.
• Warts are typically soft, moist, pink or red and are usually painless.
• Warts may be single or multiple growths and sometimes form a cauliflower-like shape.
• Warts may itch.

Testing and Treatment: Testing and treatment of genital warts is available at all PPWP health center sites. Please see Fees for Services on our website for more information about our sliding fee options.

Testing: A clinician can conduct a visual evaluation of warts during a pelvic exam. A pap test may reveal abnormal cell changes. A Colposcopy procedure-which utilizes a high powered microscopic evaluation of tissue or fluid samples- may be conducted.

Treatment: There is no cure for genital warts. Genital warts can recur and depending on size and location, can be treated in a number of ways including:

• Applying prescription medication to the wart.
• Allocation of acid.
• Surgery.
• Cryotherapy (wart is frozen off).
• Injection of medicine. 

Some types of HPV cause cancer of the cervix, vulva, penis, anus or vagina (called high-risk HPV).

       print page