Can HPV infection cause genital warts?

Genital warts may be smooth, raised, or clustered and can occur on the penis, vulva, vagina, cervix, around the anus, or nearby groin skin. They may itch, bleed with friction, or cause no sensation. HPV can spread through close skin-to-skin sexual contact, including when no wart is visible. The appearance of a wart does not identify when the infection was acquired or which partner transmitted it. Other bumps can look similar, so an examination is useful before self-treatment.

Book a clinician visit for a new genital bump, especially if it is changing or the diagnosis is unclear. Do not apply over-the-counter wart products intended for hands or feet to genital skin. Until assessed, avoid picking or shaving over lesions and consider barrier protection; it lowers exposure but cannot cover every area of skin. A clinician can discuss removal options, recurrence monitoring, partner communication, and relevant sexual-health screening.

Seek prompt review for bleeding, ulceration, severe pain, rapid growth, discharge, or a lesion inside the vagina, urethra, or anus. Urgent help is needed for heavy bleeding, fever with worsening swelling, or trouble passing urine. Pregnancy, immune suppression, or a history of abnormal cervical screening should be mentioned when arranging care.

Ask whether the lesion is consistent with a genital wart, whether testing or biopsy is needed, which treatment fits its location, and how to protect irritated skin. Ask about vaccination, cervical screening, partner advice, and what symptoms should lead to earlier review.