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Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area, including the penis, scrotum, vulva, vagina, cervix, or anus.
Symptoms of genital warts may include:
Genital warts can be spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. HPV is a very common virus and can be spread even when there are no visible warts. Some people may have the virus and never develop visible warts, while others may develop warts months or even years after exposure.
Treatment for genital warts may include topical medications applied directly to the warts, such as imiquimod or podofilox, or surgical procedures such as cryotherapy or laser therapy to remove the warts. In some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary.
Prevention is key when it comes to genital warts. Using condoms during sexual activity can help reduce the risk of infection, as can limiting sexual partners and getting vaccinated against HPV. It is also important to have regular checkups with a healthcare provider to monitor for signs of infection and discuss appropriate screening and prevention strategies.