Genital warts

Genital Warts - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment (2022)

Genital warts, or condylomas, are small benign growths located on the genitals, the area around the anus or in the cervix. Genital warts are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus, often referred to as HPV, and is transmitted through sexual contact. The warts usually disappear on their own after 6-12 months, but if they cause problems or are a nuisance, they can be treated locally with various means on the recommendation of a doctor. If you have typical symptoms of genital warts, you can now get a self-service prescription.

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What is genital warts?

Genital warts are warts caused by infection with HPV (human papilloma virus). The most common subtypes are HPV 6 and HPV 11. Genital warts are small growths that can resemble a tiny cauliflower. They occur in the area around the vulva, labia, anus, vagina and cervix for women. For men, they occur on the penis, foreskin and the area around the root of the penis and the anus. The warts appear 1-8 months after the time of infection.

Genital warts are a common condition and an estimated 10-15% of all sexually active people will experience this during their lifetime. Infection occurs through direct contact with a partner. Condoms will provide limited protection, while vaccination against HPV can provide some protection. 20-30% will relapse in the first year. In practice, everyone will
get rid of HPV infection after 2-3 years, as long as there is no travel infection.

Symptoms of genital warts

The most common symptom is sudden appearance of warts in typical areas. They can cause slight itching, but most often they cause no discomfort. If warts occur in the vagina in women, they can cause pain. The same applies to warts that occur at the urethra and anus. Larger warts may bleed.

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How can Dr. Dropin help you?

The diagnosis is made by typical changes and sampling is unnecessary in the vast majority of cases. Newly appearing warts can be treated with local cream/ointment or liniment. If this is not sufficient, freezing or laser treatment can be considered. As a rule, one avoids treating warts that occur on mucous membranes, for example in the vaginal wall, due to the risk of local reaction. If the warts are located in such a way that they cause pain, we will help you relieve the discomfort. If you have had genital warts in the past or recognize the typical symptoms, you can also get a digital prescription.

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Frequently asked questions about genital warts

Are genital warts a precursor to cancer?

No, genital warts are not associated with the risk of developing cancer. HPV6 and HPV11 cause 90% of all genital warts and are designated as low-risk viruses.

Are genital warts dangerous?

No, genital warts are not dangerous.

I have had intercourse with someone who had genital warts. Is it certain that I am infected?

No, it is not certain. It seems to be random who develops genital warts and who does not.

How long is the treatment for genital warts?

It depends on how good the response is. Usually you start with a liniment that you apply to the warts for 3 days. The course can be repeated in the event of a lack of effect or relapse. Laser or freezing treatment can also be repeated if there is no effect.

Will the HPV vaccine protect against genital warts?

The HPV vaccine, which is nivalent (ie protects against 9 subtypes of HPV) can provide protection against genital warts.

I am pregnant and have genital warts. Will my child get infected and is it dangerous?

The child can be infected by HPV during birth. HPV can cause benign tumors in the child's airways, which require surgical treatment in the first years of life. Pregnant women should therefore be treated, and the first choice is freezing or laser treatment. This is done in the specialist health service.

Author: Doctor Kari Madeleine G Hilde.

Last updated: 22.11.2022.

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