Genital wart

Updated: 2024-03-12

Description

A small bump caused by a virus and spread through contact with genitals or body fluids.

Overview

Genital warts are bumps caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Nearly all people catch the virus when they become sexually active. A vaccine given before that time can protect against certain strains of HPV that cause genital warts and some cancers.

Symptoms

Genital warts may look like a bump or be small and flat. If many bumps grow together, they can merge into a cluster, often compared to cauliflower. In or on the genitals, the warts may cause itching, discomfort or bleeding during sex. The warts also can form in the mouth or throat.

Treatments

A healthcare professional can give medicine that's applied to the skin to treat genital warts. In some situations, surgery can remove the warts. Vaccines protect against strains of HPV that cause genital warts and some cancers.