Genital warts FAQ

What's the cause of genital warts ?

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the cause of genital warts. There are about 100 strains of HPV. About 30 of them are sexually transmitted. And some of them are high risk strains that can lead to the cancer of the cervix, the vulva, the vagina, the anus and the penis.

Is it a wide spread disease ?

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, about 6.2 million new cases of HPV infections are declared each year in the US. And according to the same source, 20 million Americans have already been infected by the virus.

Is it possible to have HPV without developing any symptoms of genital warts?

Yes, It is possible to have an HPV infection without noticing any growth of the warts. And some times, a person can be infected without knowing it and can even transmit the disease to a sex partner.

What are the symptoms of genital warts ?

They are tiny red or pink swellings of the skin that grow quickly and that some times take on a cauliflower shape. Read more about the symptoms of genital warts here.

When do symptoms of genital warts appear ?

The first signs of genital warts appear months or even years after the infection. And in some cases a person can have the virus without ever developping any symptoms.

How to diagnose genital warts ?

In some cases the genital warts are not visible to the naked eye. In this case the diagnosis of genital warts may require a doctor to apply a weak vinegar-like solution to the area where their presence is suspected before he can see them. In some cases the doctor may also need to investigate the hidden areas inside the anus or the vagina to check their presence there. For women, most cases of genital warts are diagnosed after an abnormal pap smear test.

What are the treatments for genital warts?

There is currently no treatment for HPV itself, but there are many possible ways to cure genital warts. They can be cured with natural remedies, with a surgical treatment, or with a topical treatment.

How to prevent being infected by genital warts?

You have to avoid any contact with the virus itself either through sexual intercourse or through skin contacts with the genital warts of an infected person. The condom does not guaranty any protection unless the warts are completely covered by it.

Can you show me pictures of genital warts ?

Yes, here is a website where you can view pictures of genital warts on males and females and in all different stages and locations. Click here to view them.

What is the most effective treatment for genital warts ?

A lot of people have tried many different remedies like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil. Others prefer to try natural medicines like Wartrol while others prefer to use creams like Aldara. All these treatments work very well, but if you're in doubt as to what treatment to follow, then you'd better ask you doctor.

Is it possible to get genital warts from toilet seats ?

No,you can't get genital warts from toilet seats or from sharing baths or towels or swimming pools.

Are genital warts curable ?

Yes, genital warts are curable. However, there is no known treatment to get you rid of HPV, which is the virus that causes them.

In fact, some people suffer new outbreaks of genital warts after initially treating them.

Can I clear genital warts at home ?

Yes you can do that using home remedies like tea tree oil, Castor oil, Thuja oil, or apple cider vinegar. You can also clear them using creams like Efudex, Podofilox or Aldara.