What are the symptoms of genital warts?

Genital warts can involve the anus, cervix, penis, scrotum, urethra, vagina or vulva. They can occasionally be found in the groin or on the thigh. Sometimes they cannot be seen without magnification. Sometimes they form large clusters. They may be flat or raised and cauliflower-like.

Common symptoms of genital warts

Common symptoms of genital warts include:

  • Bleeding from the urethra or vagina
  • Flesh-colored, white, grayish, or dark bumps in the genital area
  • Itching

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

Some complications of genital warts are rare but require prompt treatment.Seek immediate medical care (call 911)if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms including:

  • Bleeding during pregnancy
  • Inability to have a bowel movement
  • Inability to urinate because genital warts block the urethra
INTRODUCTION

What are genital warts?

Genital warts are flesh-colored or grayish bumps caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV, that occur in the genital area. They can be big or small, flat or raised, and solitary or clustered. In men, they can be found on the scrotum or penis; in women, they can appear on the cervix, in the vagina, or on the vulva. They can also occur near or inside the anus and urethra.... Read more about genital warts introduction

CAUSES

What causes genital warts?

Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted infection caused by certain types of human papilloma virus. While genital warts are spread by direct contact, they do not have to be visible to be contagious and may not develop until weeks or months after the infection occurs.... Read more about genital warts causes

TREATMENTS

How are genital warts treated?

Genital warts do not always require treatment. For many people, the decision of whether to get treated is a personal choice.... Read more about genital warts treatments

Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 2, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

This Article is Filed Under: Sexual Health


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