What are the symptoms of genital warts?

A wart may be a single smooth bump, a group of bumps, or a raised, uneven cluster. Growths can occur on the vulva, penis, scrotum, groin, around the anus, or inside the vagina or anus. They may be skin-coloured, pink, or slightly darker than nearby skin.

Some people notice itching, burning, dampness, bleeding after friction, or discomfort during sex. Others have no sensation and only find the growth while washing or during a routine examination. A vulval lump or other vulval skin change has several possible causes, so appearance alone cannot confirm HPV or a wart.

Arrange an examination with a clinician rather than using ordinary wart removers on genital skin. Do not pick, shave across, or share towels during the assessment. Tell the clinician about changes in size or number, bleeding, pain, pregnancy, and any recent sexual-health concerns; these details help choose a safe evaluation and treatment plan.

Treatment may involve a prescribed cream such as imiquimod, freezing, or removal with an energy-based procedure. These treatments address visible warts, while HPV may remain in the skin. Vaccination can be discussed as prevention for suitable people, but it does not remove an existing wart.

Seek medical advice for any new genital or anal growth, particularly if it is changing, bleeding, painful, ulcerated, or difficult to identify. Arrange prompt care for severe pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, or trouble passing urine. A clinician may also check for other sexually transmitted infections when appropriate.

Does this growth look like a genital wart or another vulval or genital skin condition? Do I need sexual-health testing? Which treatment fits its location, and should a partner or household contact seek advice?