Transmission of Genital Warts

HPV infection can cause genital warts, benign (non-cancerous) growths on a person's genitals. A woman can develop warts inside and around the outside of the vagina, on the vulva ("lips" or opening to the vagina) and cervix, and around the anus. Genital warts are less common in men and are usually seen on the tip of the penis. They can also be found on the shaft of the penis, on the scrotum, or around the anus. While very rare, genital warts can grow in the mouth or throat of a person who has had oral sex with an infected person.

The size of genital warts varies and some may be so small, you can't see them with your eye. They can be flat and flesh-colored or look bumpy like cauliflower. They often occur in clusters, or groups, and can spread into large masses in the genital or anal area.

Genital warts are spread very easily during oral, vaginal, or anal sex with someone who has HPV. More than two-thirds of people who have sexual contact with someone who has HPV will develop warts, most often within 3 months of contact.