Genital warts are the most common form of viral sexually transmitted disease in the United States. It can cause great mental anguish, but rarely harms anyone. Human papilloma virus, HPV, is the cause of the warts. It is the same virus that causes all other types of warts; different sub types of the virus cause the different types of warts.

About half of all sexually active adults in the united states are believed to be infected with HPV, but only about 1 % has warts. When a patient is diagnosed, confusion and hurt are the usual emotions. Here are the 4 most common questions people ask about genital warts, taken from the recent article in the dermatologic literature.

Who gave it to me?

Any sexual partner could have transmitted the virus. The incubation period can be range from months to years.

Will it hurt me?

Although some sub-types of HPV can cause cervical dysplasia (unusual precancerous cells) and cancer, the most common sub-types in most genital warts have a low risk. Men have very little risk of cancer from any of these sub types.

For women, it is important to have an internal gynecologic examination after personal diagnosis, or when the diagnosed person is their significant other. Once examined and found to have no internal involvement, only routine annual PAP smears and examinations are needed.

If a woman, can it be transmitted to my baby?

The risk is very small. You should consult both your dermatologist and obstetrician for guidance.

How do I prevent transmission?

Much about how HPV is transmitted is unknown. Condoms provide only partial protection.

Many treatments exist for genital warts. Physician-applied therapies include liquid nitrogen and various types of acids. For isolated warts, simple numbing and surgical removal is curative and quick. Patient-applied therapies such as Condylox and Aldara are very effective for limited involvement.

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