Genital warts (condylomata acuminata) are growths which vary in size and can be found on the penis, scrotum, vulva, or around the rectum, they can also develop inside the vagina or anus. Genital warts on the vulva are usually soft because the skin here is moist and hairless. Genital warts that develop on skin that is dry and hairy tend to be firm.

The number of warts that develop can vary, Some people have a few that are hardly noticeable, while others have a lot. They are caused by a virus called human papilloma virus (HPV). The HPV virus causes a hard protein called keratin in the top layer of the skin to grow too much, producing the rough, hard texture of a wart.

They do not usually cause any symptoms, but they may be itchy if they are around the anus. Furthermore, the warts may be a sign of an STI or in rare cases, cancer.

 

How are they passed on?

A strain of the HPV virus is passed on during sex, or very close sexual contact. However, most people infected with HPV do not develop visible warts. You can carry the virus without realising and pass it on to other people.

 

Treatment

Genital warts can be removed in different ways depending upon the size. It can be a painful process and can take up to 6 months.

 

Source NHS-CKS