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Genital Wart Facts
Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and there are more than 75 strains of genital warts currently identified. Approximately 90% of all genital warts cases are caused by two specific types of the HPV (6 and 11) and are the least likely to have any cancer-causing potential. Less common types of genital warts have been associated with premalignant and malignant cervical cancers in women. HPV-16, in particular, has been attributed to about 50% of all cases of cervical cancer. Together, types 16, 18, 31, and 45, together, account for 80% of cancers.
There are more than 100 different types of warts, but genital warts are quite specific, so it is important not to confuse them with other types.
Signs that you may be suffering from genital warts include tiny, gray, pink or red swellings in your genital area that grow rapidly; several warts close together that form a cauliflower-type shape; itching, burning and discomfort in the genital area; discomfort, pain or bleeding associated with intercourse.
Symptoms of the first genital warts infection usually appear within 26 days of exposure and last for up to three weeks. Both men and women may have one or more symptoms, including an itching or tingling sensation in the genital or anal area and small fluid-filled blisters. These blisters burst and leave small sores, which can be quite painful.
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Genital Wart Facts