HPV

HPV is a virus that causes warts, some strains of HPV cause warts on the hands, while other strains cause warts in the genital area.  Of these strains, a few can lead to penile cancer in men and cervical cancer in women.  Treating HPV early can help prevent serious health problems in the future.  Millions of people carry HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and don’t even know it, by making healthy choices you can help to protect others. 

Some people with HPV notice genital warts (condyloma) within a few months of exposure. In others warts take years to appear.  While some people never develop warts, despite exposure to HPV.  This makes it almost impossible to know when you were infected or by whom.

Genital Warts

Genital warts can appear alone or in groups.  They might feel like bumps and look like a rash, or could be flat and nearly invisible.  A man’s genital warts could look different from a woman’s.  If you suspect that you have genital warts, please discuss and show them to your health care provider.

Removing genital warts may help protect you by preventing cell changes that could potentially lead to cancer, and will also lower your chances of passing them onto your partner.  Prescription creams can be applied to warts and the surrounding skin to remove them.  Warts can also be removed by cautery (heat), or laser treatments.  The number of treatments may depend on how many warts are being removed.  It is important to use a condom during intercourse. Remember that condoms protect only the skin that they cover, warts are contagious so avoid touching them; this includes oral sex.