Genital warts, also known as condylomas, are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. They are caused by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), primarily types 6 and 11. While these strains are considered low-risk in terms of cancer development, genital warts can be bothersome, contagious, and emotionally distressing. Understanding how they develop, how they are transmitted, and the treatment options available is essential for maintaining sexual and reproductive health.
What Causes Genital Warts?
Genital warts are caused by HPV, a virus transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Unlike some infections, HPV does not require visible lesions to spread. Even individuals without noticeable warts may still carry and transmit the virus. Factors that increase susceptibility include:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse with multiple partners
- Weakened immune system due to illness, medication, or stress
- Smoking, which impairs local immune defenses
- Previous history of other sexually transmitted infections
HPV infections are very common, and many people may carry the virus without ever developing visible warts.
Symptoms and Appearance
Genital warts can vary in size, shape, and location. They may appear:
- As small, soft growths or bumps, often skin-colored or slightly darker
- Singly or in clusters, sometimes resembling cauliflower-like shapes
- On the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, urethra, or around the anus
- With or without itching, burning, or discomfort
In many cases, genital warts are painless. However, their appearance and persistence often cause psychological stress and reduced self-confidence.
Possible Complications
Although the strains causing genital warts are generally not linked to cancer, the presence of HPV infection still requires medical attention. Certain other HPV strains (such as types 16 and 18) are associated with cervical, anal, and penile cancers. For this reason, women with HPV should have regular gynecological check-ups, including Pap smears, to monitor cervical health.
Additionally, genital warts may grow during pregnancy, sometimes complicating childbirth if they obstruct the birth canal.
How Genital Warts Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination by a gynecologist, urologist, or dermatologist. In women, colposcopy may be performed to check for HPV-related changes in the cervix. In some cases, a biopsy is taken to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options
While HPV cannot be completely eradicated from the body, treatment focuses on removing visible warts and controlling symptoms. Options include:
- Topical medications: Creams or solutions applied directly to the warts to stimulate immune response or destroy tissue.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing warts with liquid nitrogen to remove them.
- Laser or electrosurgery: Used for more extensive or resistant warts.
- Surgical excision: Physically removing the warts under local anesthesia.
Recurrence is possible, as the virus may remain in the body even after treatment. Strengthening the immune system and practicing safe sex can help reduce recurrence rates.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing genital warts largely involves reducing HPV transmission:
- Consistent use of condoms during sexual activity (though not 100% protective, as HPV spreads via skin contact)
- Limiting the number of sexual partners
- HPV vaccination, which protects against the most common wart-causing and cancer-causing strains
- Regular gynecological and urological check-ups for early detection of HPV-related changes
With more than 37 years of experience, Erdem Hospital provides expert care for HPV-related conditions, offering safe and effective treatments for genital warts while guiding patients on prevention and long-term health monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are genital warts dangerous?
Genital warts themselves are not life-threatening. However, because HPV is linked to certain cancers, medical evaluation and follow-up are important. - Can genital warts go away on their own?
Yes. In some cases, warts may regress spontaneously within months. However, they often persist or recur without treatment. - How contagious are genital warts?
They are highly contagious and can be transmitted even if warts are not visible. Condom use reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk. - Can genital warts affect fertility?
Genital warts usually do not affect fertility, but extensive lesions may complicate pregnancy or childbirth. - Is there a cure for HPV?
Currently, there is no cure for HPV itself. Treatments remove warts, but the virus can remain dormant in the body. The immune system often suppresses it over time.