Common STIs - Genital Warts

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Cause

Genital and anal warts are caused by a virus called human papilloma virus (HPV). Wart virus is one of the most common STIs in Australia.

Symptoms

This virus can cause warts in the genital area. These are small, painless cauliflower shaped or flat lumps on the skin that may be so small you can't see or feel them.

In women, warts may appear on the vulva (lips of the vagina), in the vagina or on the cervix, or around the anus.

In men, warts may appear on the penis, in the pubic area, around the anus or on the testicles.

Many people have the virus and remain unaware of it because it can be on the skin even when there is no sign of warts at all. Women often only discover the infection when they get the results of a Pap test.

How is it transmitted?

Usually through genital to genital direct skin contact.

Management

Visible genital warts can be treated using various methods; freezing, chemical paint or cream are the most common.

Removal of warts does not mean that the virus has been eliminated. The virus can remain on the skin even where no warts can be seen.

Prevention

Condoms will lower the risk of spreading genital warts but they can't totally prevent infection during intimate sexual contact because some areas of skin are not covered by the condom.

Sexually active women should have regular Pap tests every two years to detect any wart virus on the cervix as there is a link between the wart virus and some cervical cell changes.

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Department of Human Services

Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 9 Jun 2009