Genital Warts: Understanding Growth, Causes & Transmission

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are many different strains of HPV. Strains 6 and 11 are most often the cause of genital warts.

Transmission

• Genital warts are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact with someone who has HPV, usually through sexual activity.

No Symptoms

• It is possible for someone to have HPV and not know because he does not develop warts or the warts are not noticeable. Someone without symptoms can still spread HPV to others.

Time Frame

• According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it can take several months or several years for someone to first develop genital warts after being exposed to HPV. People with compromised immune systems from other illnesses are more susceptible.

Growth

• The growth of individual warts can vary greatly from person to person with no set time frame. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, warts that are untreated may go away, continue to grow, or stay the same size.

Treatment

• A health-care provider can remove genital warts in a variety of ways in the office or can give you treatments to use at home.