Genital warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). It is a highly contagious STI. 1% of patients develop the typical warts. Most infections heal spontaneously. Some types of HPV can also cause cervical, testicular, anal or throat cancer.
A vaccine is available, but it is most effective in people who are not yet sexually active. However, the vaccine can still be useful in people who are already sexually active and may therefore already be infected with one or more types of the HPV virus. The vaccine does not protect against HPV types with which the person has already been infected. In women, the vaccine also reduces the risk of long-term infections with certain high-risk HPV types and the risk of precancerous cervical lesions.
Please contact your treating doctor for more information.
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you.