What Causes Genital Warts?
Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They spread primarily through vaginal and anal sex, but can also be transmitted through oral sex or skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. HPV is the most common STI in the world, but not everyone with the virus develops genital warts.
Key Takeaways:
Genital warts come from a virus.
They are caused by certain types of HPV, a common virus that spreads through skin contact during sex. Not everyone with HPV gets warts.
There are treatments but no cure.
Medicines like Aldara and Warticon can remove warts, but the virus stays in the body, meaning warts can return.
Vaccination and safe sex help prevent them.
The HPV vaccine protects against the virus, and using condoms or dental dams lowers the risk of spreading it.
Understanding the Link Between HPV and Genital Warts
HPV is a group of viruses with over 100 different strains. Some strains cause warts on the hands and feet, while others affect the genital area. The strains responsible for genital warts are typically HPV-6 and HPV-11. These strains are considered low risk because they do not lead to cancer, unlike high-risk strains such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, which have been linked to cervical and other cancers.
Genital warts are a complication of HPV, meaning that while all cases of genital warts are caused by HPV, not all cases of HPV lead to genital warts. Many people with HPV have no symptoms and may unknowingly pass the virus to their partners.
Who Is at Risk of Genital Warts?
Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting HPV and developing genital warts. However, certain factors increase the likelihood of infection:
Age – Genital warts are most common in people under 30.
Weakened Immune System – Conditions such as HIV, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications can make it harder for the body to fight off infections.
Smoking – Smokers are at a higher risk of developing genital warts due to reduced immune function.
Multiple Sexual Partners – The more partners you have, the greater the chance of coming into contact with HPV.
Unprotected Sex – Not using condoms or dental dams increases the risk of HPV transmission.
Symptoms of Genital Warts
Unlike some STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, genital warts are often visible to the naked eye. However, they can also develop internally and go unnoticed. Common symptoms include:
Visible Warts
Small, skin-coloured lumps in the genital or anal area
Warts may appear flat, raised, or have a cauliflower-like texture
Clusters of warts or a single growth
Other Symptoms
Itching or discomfort in the affected area
Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
Bleeding after sex
Changes in urine flow (if warts block the urethra)
For men, warts can appear on the penis, scrotum, groin, thighs, and anus. In women, they can occur inside or around the vagina, cervix, and anus. In rare cases, warts can also develop in the mouth or throat due to oral transmission.
How to Treat Genital Warts
If you have been diagnosed with genital warts, there are several effective treatments available. These treatments focus on removing the visible warts, but they do not cure HPV itself. The virus can remain dormant in the body, leading to future outbreaks.
Topical Treatments
Aldara (Imiquimod) – Boosts the immune system to help clear warts over 4-12 weeks.
Warticon (Podophyllotoxin) – A plant-based treatment that kills wart tissue over several weeks.
Condyline – Similar to Warticon, applied twice daily for three days.
Catephen Ointment – A botanical extract used to treat mild to moderate warts.
Medical Procedures
For severe or persistent cases, a doctor may recommend:
Cryotherapy – Freezing the warts off using liquid nitrogen.
Surgical removal – Cutting off large or resistant warts.
Laser treatment – Burning off warts using high-energy laser beams.
Important: Over-the-counter wart treatments (such as those used for verrucas or common warts) should not be used for genital warts, as they are not formulated for sensitive genital skin.
Preventing Genital Warts
HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) protects against the most common HPV strains that cause genital warts and certain cancers. In the UK, this vaccine is offered to teenage girls and boys aged 12-13 as part of the NHS vaccination programme.
Safe Sex Practices
Use condoms or dental dams during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Get regular sexual health check-ups at your local clinic.
Avoid sexual contact if you or your partner have visible warts.
Where to Buy Genital Wart Treatments in the UK
If you need treatment for genital warts, you can purchase effective prescription medications online from UK Meds. Available treatments include:
These treatments require a free online consultation with a registered prescriber before purchase.
Final Thoughts
Genital warts are a common but manageable STI caused by certain strains of HPV. While the virus is widespread, not everyone infected will develop warts. Understanding how HPV spreads, recognising symptoms early, and seeking appropriate treatment are key to managing the condition. Practicing safe sex, getting vaccinated, and maintaining good sexual health habits can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or spreading genital warts.
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