The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can cause warts or abnormal cell changes that can lead to cancer.
There are over 100 types of HPV; about 30 types are spread through sexual contact.
The HPV types that cause warts on hands and feet are different than the ones that can infect the throat and genitals.
HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer. It is important to have regular Pap tests done to find abnormal cells that may lead to cancer.
How do I get genital HPV?
You can get genital HPV by skin-to-skin sexual contact with an infected partner.
Having unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected partner. Condoms give some protection. They may not cover sores at the base of the penis, on the outside of the vagina, or on the rectum, which could still pass on the virus.
How do I know if I have genital HPV?
Many people have no symptoms but can still carry and spread the HPV virus.
You may have warts on your genitals and/or abnormal cells on the cervix.
Cell changes or warts may appear 1 month to 1 year after sexual contact, or can appear years later.
How do I know if I have genital warts?
Women may see small, flesh or grey coloured, round, flat, or raised cauliflower-like bumps (warts) on their vulva, urethra, cervix, anus, or thighs. The bumps can be alone or in groups.
Men may have similar growths on the penis, scrotum, rectum, or thighs.
The warts are usually painless but can be itchy. They may be uncomfortable or bleed during sex.
How do I get tested?
Go to a doctor, STD, or Family Planning Clinic for a physical examination.
Have a Pap test every year if you are female.
How are genital warts treated?
Genital warts may or may not need to be treated or removed.
Prescribed medication or liquid nitrogen can be put on the wart.
More than one treatment is often needed to make sure the warts are gone. Warts cannot be cured and may come back.
In very bad cases, laser or minor surgery may be needed.
Do not use over-the-counter wart medications on genital warts.
What if I do not treat HPV/genital warts?
Most of the time, HPV/genital warts will clear on their own within two years.
Some strains of HPV cause almost all cases of cervical cancer.
There is also a link between genital HPV and cancer of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and throat.
Warts spread easily and can become infected.
Rarely, genital warts can be passed from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby, causing problems with the baby's vocal cords.
How can I prevent the spread of HPV/genital warts?
Abstinence (not having sex) may be your best choice.
Get vaccinated! Talk to your doctor or clinic for more information.
Practice "safer sex". Always use condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. A condom does not protect you against warts that are not covered.
Use a dental dam during oral sex on women.
Do not have sexual contact until the warts are gone.
Do not share sex toys.
Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
Ask your partner about his or her sexual history.
Get tested for STIs (sexually transmitted infection) before having any sexual activity with a new partner.
If you think you have been infected with an STI, see a healthcare provider.
Do not have sex with an infected person.
Tell your partner if you have an infection.
Get information, guidance, and support.
Sexual Decision Making
You have the right to choose whether or not to have sexual intercourse.
If you choose to have sex, be sure to protect yourself from pregnancy and STIs.
Talk to your partner about these choices before you have sex!
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Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. If you have specific questions, please consult your doctor or appropriate health care professional.
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