What it is
Genital warts are soft growths or bumps that can appear on or near the genital and anal area. They are caused by certain types of HPV, a very common family of viruses. This page is educational only and cannot tell you whether a particular spot is a wart.
Whether genital warts are contagious comes down to the virus. HPV can spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, and a person can carry and pass on the virus without having any visible signs. That is why it can be hard to know when or from whom it was picked up, and why blame is rarely useful.
Many different things can look like warts, including other skin conditions and, rarely, more serious growths. Any spot that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist or other licensed clinician for skin cancer. Please do not try to identify or treat it yourself.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, genital warts have been approached through an exam by a licensed clinician, such as a primary care, sexual-health or dermatology provider. The clinician looks at the area, talks with the person about their history, and decides whether any next steps make sense.
Clinic-based approaches have included prescription topical products and in-office procedures, and some people and clinicians choose to monitor without active treatment. Which option, if any, is appropriate is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation. Results vary, and warts can return.
Over-the-counter wart products are not meant for genital or facial skin, and cutting, burning or digging out a growth at home is not safe. HPV vaccination also exists as part of how HPV is traditionally addressed at a public-health level. Ask a clinician whether it is something to discuss for you.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help you get clear, private answers. A visit generally involves a conversation about what you have noticed, a gentle exam if appropriate, and time for your questions. Many providers see these concerns often and aim to make the visit matter-of-fact and respectful.
Helpful questions to bring: Is this likely to be contagious right now? How might it affect my partner or partners, and should they talk with a provider too? Are there options to consider, and what might the pros and cons be? What is the current regulatory status of any prescription product you suggest?
You can also ask about HPV vaccination, about what to expect if warts return, and about when to follow up. A provider may help you feel better informed, though no approach can promise a particular outcome.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Worry, embarrassment or fear of judgment around a diagnosis like this can be heavy, and stress can make it harder to sleep, focus or feel at ease in close relationships. Caring for your overall well-being sits alongside any skin-focused care.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches listed through Somatic Experiences, helpful for managing stress. Others prefer to talk through feelings about intimacy, shame or communication with a partner, and Therapists.plus can help you find talk therapy. Neither replaces a medical evaluation, and you can explore what feels right for you.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: anxiety panic and ocd →
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice; only a licensed clinician can tell you what a growth is and what, if anything, is appropriate.
- Genital warts are contagious, but you can carry HPV without visible signs, so please speak with a provider about protecting yourself and your partners, without shame or blame.
- Any growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer. The ABCDEs of melanoma are only a general guide, not a self-check.
- People with diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system should ask a provider before treating any wart at home. In an emergency call 911; in a crisis call or text 988.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
Are genital warts contagious?
Yes, genital warts are contagious because they are caused by certain types of HPV that can pass through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. A person can also carry HPV without visible warts. A licensed clinician can explain what this means for you and your partners.
How do genital warts spread?
They spread mainly through intimate skin-to-skin contact with a person who carries the virus. Because HPV may not cause any visible signs, it is often impossible to know when or from whom it was passed on. A provider can talk with you about this privately.
Can you spread genital warts if you cannot see any?
It may be possible, because HPV can be present without visible warts. This is one reason a clinician encourages open conversation about sexual health rather than relying on appearance. Ask a provider what applies to your situation.
Can genital warts spread through towels, toilet seats or casual contact?
Genital warts are generally understood to spread through close skin-to-skin contact, not through everyday contact like sharing a room or a hug. If you have specific concerns about shared items, a clinician can answer them for you.
Should my partner see a provider too?
It is a good idea to encourage partners to talk with a licensed provider, without blame or shame. HPV is very common, and a clinician can discuss exams, vaccination and ways to lower the chance of spreading it.
Is there a vaccine for the HPV types that cause genital warts?
HPV vaccination exists, and it is worth discussing with a clinician to see if it is appropriate for you. A provider can explain who it is generally offered to and what to expect. Vaccination is not a substitute for an exam if you notice a growth.
Educational resource. Warts.ai shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.