Genital Warts

are a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection (STI)

about

What is Genital Warts?

Genital warts are a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by some types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts are skin growths and can cause a lot of itching and discomfort. Some types of HPV are now known to promote cancer of the cervix and vulva.

  • is it
    treatable?

    Yes, Genital Warts are treatable. The type of treatment depends on the size, number of warts and their location. The options available include: freezing the warts or using prescribed creams.

  • is it
    contagious?

    Genital Warts are highly contagious and can be transferred from one person to another through:

    • skin to skin contact
    • unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex

  • who does it
    affect?

    Genital Warts can be asymptomatic this means that the virus can be in your system and not show any physical signs of its presence. However it can take from 3 weeks to 8 months before you show any symptoms at all. Genital warts can affect both male and female.

  • common in
    Ireland?

    Genital Warts are one of the most common STI is Ireland and the infections are rising.

What is the test
for Genital Warts?

Genital Warts (HPV) can be diagnosed via a physical examination.

Where can I
get this done?

A physical examination can be performed at a STI clinic or GP clinic.

What are the
symptoms?

Genital Warts can be asymptomatic this means that the virus can be in your system and not show any physical signs of its presence. However it can take from 3 weeks to 8 months before you show any symptoms at all. symptoms may include:

Female

appearance of new "lumps" and "bumps" inside or outside of the vagina or anal area

Male

appearance of new "lumps" and "bumps" on the penis,
in the groin,
on the scrotum,
inside or around the anal area,
on the thighs

How is it
treated?

Treatment depends on the size, number or warts and location. There are a few options available such as freezing the warts and using prescribed creams.

Other STIs

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in Ireland

Gonorrhoea

Also known as the ‘clap’ or ‘drip’ it's a very common infection in both men and women and can cause infections in the genitals, anus and/or throat.

Herpes

Genital Herpes or just ‘herpes’ is caused by a virus and can cause painful blisters on the genitals and surrounding area.

HIV

HIV is a virus called The Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes HIV infection and over time AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)

HPV (Genital Warts)

Genital warts are skin growths and can cause a lot of pain, itching and discomfort.

Syphilis

It is a bacteria passed via direct contact with a syphilis sore. Sores usually occur in the mouth, vagina, anus, rectum or external genitalia.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It affects the liver and blood, it is the most common type of viral hepatitis.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It affects the liver and can result in an acute and severe sudden illness. It can be fatal if it isn’t treated!

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis C virus (HCV). It affects the liver and can result in an acute and severe sudden illness. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C.