Genital Warts/HPV
Genital warts are caused by the low risk HPV virus (Human papilloma virus) and are spread by skin-to-skin contact including sexual contact and sharing sex toys.
Only about 10% of people exposed to low risk HPV will go onto develop genital warts.
Genital warts can appear from weeks to years after acquiring HPV. Your body will usually fight off the virus within a few months, but it can sometimes take longer
Symptoms
Genital warts are similar to the warts you can get anywhere on your body.
If you do develop symptoms you may notice small, pinkish or skin coloured lumps or warts. There may be only one or 2 or a group around/inside the anal or genital area. These are usually painless, but can bleed if scratched or picked.
If you have noticed some lumps, or changes to the genital skin it is recommended that you seek advice from your GP or sexual health clinic.
Testing
The diagnosis for genital warts involves a simple examination of the genital area. There is no swab, urine or blood test for diagnosing genital warts.
High risk HPV and cancer
High risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) are a group of HPV that can lead to abnormal changes in the skin in and around the genitals. These changes can lead to a type of cancer over time.
If you notice any genital lesions that you are concerned about, it is important to seek advice from your GP or at your sexual health clinic
Cervical screening helps detect early changes and provide treatment to prevent cancer developing.
HPV vaccination is offered to secondary school children age 11-13. People under age 25 years who missed their school HPV vaccine can ask their school vaccination team or GP. Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men under age 46 who are unvaccinated can receive this at their nearest sexual health clinic.
