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HPV spreads through:

  • Skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
  • Sharing sex toys without cleaning or using a new condom.
  • Intimate genital contact, even without penetration.

HPV cannot be transmitted via:

  • Kissing.
  • Sharing towels, cutlery, cups, or toilet seats.

HPV can be transmitted even if warts are not visible. It can also spread even if condoms are used, but using condoms reduces the risk. 

 

  • Painless growths or lumps (genital warts) around the genitals or anus.
  • Itching or bleeding in the genital or anal area.
  • Persistent changes in urine flow (e.g., sideways flow).
  • Some people with HPV have no visible symptoms but can still spread the virus.

 

To reduce the risk of transmission:

  • Use condoms during vaginal, anal, or oral sex (though unprotected skin remains at risk).
  • Avoid sharing sex toys or ensure they are thoroughly cleaned or covered with a new condom.
  • Abstain from sexual activity during treatment for genital warts.

 

There is no cure for HPV, but treatments can address genital warts:

  • Topical creams or liquids: Applied by yourself or a healthcare professional.
  • Cryotherapy (freezing): May require multiple sessions and cause discomfort.
  • Surgical removal: Using cutting, burning, or lasers

Warts may come back after treatment, as the virus can remain in the body. Over time, the immune system may clear the virus naturally.

It’s advised not to have sex until treatment is complete and warts are gone, as you may risk spreading the infection to others and having warts also increases the risk of you catching other STIs.

 

  • Genital warts are not cancerous, but some HPV strains can lead to cancers (e.g., cervical cancer, anal cancer or cancer of the throat or penis). This is why vaccinating is important, as it helps prevent against some of these types of cancer. 
  • The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk strains. It is most effective when given before sexual activity begins, typically at ages 12–13.
  • People up to age 45 can also receive the vaccine, though its effectiveness decreases with prior HPV infection.

 

During pregnancy, genital warts can:

  • Appear for the first time or reappear after being dormant.
  • Grow or multiply.
  • Be treated safely, though some methods are avoided during pregnancy.
  • Rarely be passed to the baby, potentially causing throat or genital infections.

Most pregnant individuals with genital warts can have a vaginal delivery. Caesarean delivery may be considered in rare cases if warts significantly obstruct the birth canal.

 

If you notice lumps that may be genital warts, consult a doctor, dermatologist, or venereologist for diagnosis.

  • Diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination, sometimes with a magnifying lens.
  • During Pap smears, samples are usually tested for HPV as this is higher risk for cervical cancer. 
  • Internal examinations of the vagina or anus may be conducted if needed.
  • There is no routine blood test for HPV.