Genital Warts
Genital warts are one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). These small, fleshy growths appear on or around the genital and anal areas and can affect anyone who is sexually active. Although genital warts are typically painless, they may cause itching, discomfort, and emotional distress, particularly due to their location and appearance.
In South Africa and globally, genital warts remain a widespread public health concern. They are most commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 17 to 33 and are especially prevalent among those with multiple sexual partners or inconsistent use of protection. While they are not dangerous in most cases, some strains of HPV associated with genital warts have been linked to other health complications, particularly in women.
Because of the visible nature of the condition and the association with sexual activity, genital warts are often surrounded by stigma. This can lead to shame, anxiety, and a reluctance to seek medical help. But it’s important to understand that they are a medical condition, not a moral failing — and they are both manageable and treatable.
What Do Genital Warts Look Like?
Genital warts can vary in appearance. They may be:
Small, skin-coloured or grey growths
Raised or flat
Smooth or cauliflower-like in texture
Found singly or in clusters
Moist or dry, depending on their location
In men, genital warts most commonly appear on:
The shaft or tip of the penis
The scrotum
Around or inside the anus
The groin or upper thighs
In women, they may appear on:
The vulva or around the vaginal opening
The cervix (inside the vagina, requiring a speculum to detect)
The anus and surrounding skin
The upper thighs or groin area
They can also occur in the mouth or throat following oral sex with an infected partner.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone who is sexually active can contract genital warts, but some factors increase the likelihood:
Unprotected sex with multiple partners
Starting sexual activity at an early age
A weakened immune system (e.g. from HIV or certain medications)
Previous or existing STI infections
Smoking, which reduces the body’s ability to fight off HPV
Warts can be passed between heterosexual and same-sex partners, and even through skin-to-skin genital contact where penetration does not occur. This means condoms, while helpful, do not provide 100% protection.
How Long After Exposure Do Warts Appear?
HPV has a long incubation period, so genital warts can appear weeks, months, or even years after exposure. Some people carry the virus without ever developing visible warts, while others might have a sudden outbreak without warning.
This unpredictability makes it difficult to determine exactly when the infection was contracted or who passed it on, which can complicate relationships and lead to unnecessary blame.
Are Genital Warts Dangerous?
In most cases, genital warts are benign and do not cause long-term health issues. However, the HPV types that cause genital warts (mainly types 6 and 11) are different from the high-risk HPV types (like 16 and 18) that are linked to cancers of the cervix, anus, penis, and throat.
That said, the presence of genital warts indicates that a person has been exposed to HPV, so it’s important to:
Have regular cervical smear (Pap) tests if you’re a woman
Consider HPV vaccination, especially if you’re under age 26
Seek regular check-ups if you are immunocompromised
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Though not physically dangerous, genital warts can have a significant emotional impact. Individuals may experience:
Embarrassment or shame
Anxiety about transmitting the virus to partners
Fear of rejection or being stigmatised
Guilt, especially when warts appear during a monogamous relationship
It’s essential to understand that HPV is extremely common — most people will contract it at some point in their lives. Genital warts do not reflect on a person’s hygiene, character, or behaviour. They are a treatable condition that many people experience and overcome.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing genital warts involves reducing exposure to HPV:
Use condoms or dental dams during all forms of sexual contact
Limit the number of sexual partners and maintain open, honest conversations about sexual health
Get vaccinated — the HPV vaccine (such as Gardasil) protects against the strains most likely to cause genital warts and HPV-related cancers
Attend regular sexual health screenings if sexually active
Although no prevention method is completely foolproof, combining multiple strategies significantly lowers risk.
When to See a Doctor for Genital Warts
You should seek medical advice if you:
Notice any new growths, lumps, or bumps in the genital or anal area
Experience itching, bleeding, or discomfort during sex
Are unsure about whether a skin lesion might be a wart
Have been informed that a current or past partner has HPV or genital warts
Early intervention allows for easier treatment and reduces the risk of transmission. If warts are located inside the body (e.g. on the cervix or inside the anus), they may only be detected through a pelvic exam or anoscopy.
Genital warts can be frustrating, but with proper diagnosis, treatment, and emotional support, most people are able to manage the condition effectively and return to a normal, healthy sex life.
