Genital warts
Genital warts are small lumps that usually grow in and around the genitals. They can be a range of shapes and sizes and can resemble a flat or lumpy wart, a cauliflower like growth, or may be so small that they are not visible by the naked eye.
Genital warts are caused by a virus called Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and is spread through skin on skin contact with someone who has HPV. The virus can also be passed on to a baby when a woman with HPV gives birth.
Many people can have the HPV virus but have no symptoms. If you have the virus, but have no symptoms, you can still spread the virus through skin contact.
There is a range of treatments available that work well, including freezing or burning the warts, applying creams or liquids, laser treatment and surgery. Because genital warts are caused by a virus, the treatments will cure the warts, but not get rid of the virus. The warts may appear again in the future.
For more information and advice about treatment please visit a health specialist. Any of the options below will be able to help you.
- Family Planning centre
- School nurse
- Your Doctor
- Any sexual health clinic
Resources
What are Genital Warts?
Available of HealthEd.
Page last updated: 14 December 2011
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