Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can
affect both men and women. They are caused by various types of human
papillomavirus (HPV).
- In women, HPV can affect the cervix, vagina,
vulva, and area around the anus. Genital warts in women often cause abnormal
Pap test results. Certain types of HPV increase the risk of cervical
cancer.
- In men, HPV can affect the penis, scrotum, and area around the
anus.
Genital warts may continue to grow and spread, or they may go away
with or without treatment. A person infected with HPV may remain infected even
after treatment to remove visible warts or if the warts go away without
treatment. Warts often return after treatment. Pregnancy and diabetes increase
the likelihood that warts will return and increase growth of existing
warts.
HPV types that cause genital warts are different from those that
cause common, plantar, filiform, and flat warts.