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HPV & Genital Warts
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common infection. Most cases clear on their own, but some types cause genital warts and others can lead to cancer. Vaccination protects against the main types.
Causes & risk factors
- Skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex
- Very common — most sexually active people get some HPV type
- Multiple partners without protection increases exposure
- A weakened immune system (harder to clear the virus)
- Smoking (makes clearance less likely)
Common symptoms
- Often no symptoms — many infections clear silently
- Small fleshy growths (warts) on or around the genitals or anus
- Itching or discomfort around warts
- Occasional bleeding from a wart
Tests & diagnosis
- Examination of visible warts
- Cervical screening with HPV testing (in women)
- Testing for other STIs
Treatment & management
- Warts may be treated with creams, freezing or removal
- Warts can come back and often need more than one treatment
- No treatment removes the virus itself — the body usually clears it
- HPV vaccination prevents the main wart- and cancer-causing types
- Cervical screening detects HPV-related changes early
When to see a doctor urgently
- New lumps or growths around the genitals or anus
- To discuss the HPV vaccine, especially for young people
- For routine cervical screening when invited
Frequently asked questions
Does HPV always cause cancer?
No. Most HPV infections cause no harm and clear on their own. Only some high-risk types, if they persist, can lead to cancers such as cervical cancer — which screening and vaccination help prevent.
Is the HPV vaccine worth having?
Yes. It protects against the HPV types that cause most genital warts and HPV-related cancers, and works best when given before someone becomes sexually active.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.