Have you heard about genital warts? Many may feel anxious when they learn that they are infected with it but let me assure you that this topic does not require fear. The aim of this page is to give you clear, straightforward information about genital warts – including what they are, how they are transmitted, and how they are treated.


What are genital warts?

  • Genital warts are small skin bumps / tags that appear in the genital area in either men or women.
  • It is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a type of sexually transmitted infection.
  • Of the many types of HPV, types 6 and 11 are the most common in causing genital warts.
  • Genital warts are usually painless and harmless.
  • Warts may disappear on their own without treatment, but this may take months or even years. (1)


How do you get it?

  • The human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes genital warts is transmitted through sexual intercourse.
  • Some rare ways warts are transmitted are from mother to child during birth, or touching infected genital organs with the hand and then touching another person's organs.
  • Sometimes the virus can be transmitted without any visible warts. (2)


What are the symptoms of genital warts?

  • Genital warts appear as white or skin-colored bumps or blisters that look like small pieces of cauliflower.
  • They appear on the reproductive organs, such as the vagina, labia, penis, scrotum, or sometimes the anus.
  • Warts may be single or multiple, small or large.
  • They may cause itching or irritation in the affected area.
  • They usually do not cause any pain.
  • They may appear weeks, months, or even years after being infected by the virus; That's why it's difficult to know when you became infected.
  • Remember: Not every bump in the genitals is a wart. There are other similar conditions, such as regular skin tags or inflammation, so it is important to consult your doctor about them. (3)


Is it dangerous?

  • Some types of human papillomavirus (HPV), especially types 16 and 18, increase the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as cervix, vagina, penis, and others cancers.
  • The types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that cause genital warts do not cause cancer and usually do not increase the risk of it.
  • The problem is that the infection may spread to others, even if genital warts are not visible. (1)


What is the treatment for genital warts?

There are treatments that help get rid of warts and reduce the risk of spreading the infection, and they include either topical treatments or medical procedures in the doctor’s office, including:

  • Topical treatments: Creams or topical solutions are applied to the warts once or more per week (either in the clinic or at home) for several weeks until they disappear.
  • Electrocautery: Electricity is used to burn the warts.
  • Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy warts.
  • Laser: Lasers are used to destroy the blood vessels that feed the warts.
  • Surgery: Warts are surgically removed in cases where they are large or unresponsive to previous treatments.


  • Sme cases may require Several sessions for the final elimination of warts.
  • Tere is no permanent cure for the human papillomavirus (HPV), meaning genital warts can recur after treatment, even if they disappear entirely. This is because HPV may remain in the body even after the warts are removed. However, in most cases, both the virus and the warts clear up within two years, thanks to the strength of the immune system.


It is important avoid sexual intercourse during the treatment period. (4)


Can genital warts be prevented?

  • The best way to prevent genital warts is to prevent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes them, through the HPV vaccine.
  • It is recommended to receive the HPV vaccine at an early age before starting sexual activity; To provide better protection, the vaccine can be received starting at the age of 9 years.
  • Using a condom correctly during every intercourse reduces the risk of infection. (5)




Don't let embarrassment hold you back. Genital warts are common, and seeking help is the first step toward effective treatment. At Al-Ahli Hospital, our experienced and caring team is here to provide you with the best care to safely and quickly eliminate genital warts. We're here to support you every step of the way.




References