What it is
Genital warts are skin growths in the genital or anal area that are linked to certain types of HPV. HPV is a large family of viruses, and only some types are associated with genital warts. Other types are associated with different skin changes, such as common warts on the hands or feet.
The virus is generally passed through intimate skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it. Many people who carry HPV have no visible signs and may not know it, which is why a person can have it without a clear idea of when or from whom it was acquired. This is also why blame is rarely useful or accurate.
Because other skin changes can look similar, no one can tell from appearance alone what a growth is. Some growths need to be checked for other reasons, including skin cancer. A growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist or other licensed clinician. Please do not try to self-diagnose or self-treat it.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, the first step has been an exam by a licensed clinician, such as a primary care, sexual-health or dermatology provider. They can look at the area, talk through your history and decide whether any further testing is appropriate.
If a clinician finds that treatment is appropriate, there are several approaches they have traditionally used. These may include medicines applied by a provider or prescribed for use at home, and in-office procedures. Which option fits, if any, is a decision for the clinician after an evaluation. Some warts are also monitored over time.
Results vary, and warts can return even after they have been treated, because the virus may remain in the body. Over-the-counter wart products made for hands and feet are not meant for genital or facial areas and should not be used there. Never cut, burn or dig out a growth at home. HPV vaccination also exists, and a clinician can explain whether it is something to consider.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help by giving you a private, unhurried place to ask questions. A visit generally starts with a conversation about what you have noticed and your health history, followed by a gentle visual exam. A good clinician aims to keep the visit respectful and judgment-free.
Questions you might bring include: What do you think this growth is, and does anything need testing? What are my options, and what are the pros and cons of each? What should I expect afterward, and what might return? Should I ask about HPV vaccination? You can also ask about the current FDA status of any prescription product a provider suggests.
Partners are welcome to talk with a provider too. A clinician can explain what is known about how HPV spreads and what screening or protection options exist, without shame. Tell the provider if you have diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system, since that can change how they approach care.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Worry, embarrassment or fear about intimacy can be heavy, and stress can make it harder to feel at ease in your body or to seek care. Being gentle with yourself is part of the picture, and you are far from alone.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches listed through Somatic Experiences, helps them feel more settled. Others find talking things through with a licensed professional through Therapists.plus useful for worries about relationships or self-image. These are options to explore, not requirements, and neither replaces a medical exam.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: anxiety panic and ocd →
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice; it cannot tell you what a growth is or what you need.
- Please see a licensed clinician for an exam. A growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer.
- Do not use over-the-counter wart products on genital or facial areas, and never cut, burn or dig out a growth.
- Licensed professionals should guide your care. For emergencies 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
What causes genital warts?
Genital warts are associated with certain types of HPV, a common virus spread through close skin-to-skin contact. Many people carry HPV without any signs, so it is often impossible to know when or from whom it was acquired. A licensed clinician can answer questions about your situation.
Can you get genital warts without having many partners?
Yes, anyone who has had intimate contact can come into contact with HPV, regardless of the number of partners. Because the virus can be present without symptoms, a person may not know they have it. Talking with a clinician can help you understand your own situation without blame.
Are genital warts the same as common warts on hands or feet?
No, they are generally associated with different HPV types than the ones that commonly cause warts on hands and feet. Because they are different, products meant for hands and feet should not be used on genital or facial skin. A clinician can tell you what is appropriate.
Can genital warts come back after treatment?
Yes, warts can return, and results vary from person to person. No treatment can be promised to remove them for good or to clear HPV from the body. A provider can talk through what to expect and what follow-up makes sense.
Is there a vaccine related to HPV?
Yes, HPV vaccination exists. Whether it is appropriate for you is something to discuss with a licensed clinician, who can consider your age and health history.
Who should I see about genital warts?
A primary care, sexual-health or dermatology provider can examine the area and talk through options. Any growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer. Providers.plus lists licensed providers who may be able to help.
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.