Symptoms of genital warts in males

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on May 20, 2025
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The symptoms of genital warts in males primarily appear on the glans, coronal sulcus, frenulum, urinary meatus, and base of the penis. Additionally, in the case of homosexual men, these may appear around the anus and inside the rectum, manifesting as papillary or cauliflower-like growths.

The warts are usually white, pink, or soiled gray in color, and their surface is prone to erosion, exudation, and rupture, which can easily bleed upon contact. However, most individuals do not experience noticeable symptoms.

Male genital warts are primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Treatments include the use of carbon dioxide laser, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, or photodynamic therapy. It is also important to avoid unprotected sexual activities.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
1min 8sec home-news-image

Initial symptoms of genital warts in women

The initial symptoms of genital warts in women are usually some pale red, soft, and tiny papules which then gradually increase in size and number. These papules may merge with each other, with some overlapping, and the surface becomes rough, resembling cauliflower or cockscomb, or nipple-like formations. If the area is moist and warm or exposed to chronic irritation, the warts can grow more rapidly. Generally, genital warts in women, after being infiltrated by secretions, turn a dirty grey or red color and have a rather soft texture. The base of the genital warts usually has some stalk-like structures. Some genital warts may erode and exude fluid, which also makes them prone to secondary bacterial infections, leading to foul smells. Genital warts in women are primarily caused by the human papillomavirus infection, and the treatment typically involves the use of methods like carbon dioxide laser or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What medicine is used for genital warts?

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection, and this disease is highly contagious and recurrent, classified as a sexually transmitted disease. Although some over-the-counter topical medications available on the market are somewhat effective, they can also be quite corrosive. Improper use may lead to local corrosion or ulceration, so it is advised to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a recognized hospital. The most common treatment involves removing the warts with laser or cryotherapy, followed by the use of oral and topical antiviral medications. During treatment, it is crucial to avoid sexual contact. After recovery, it is important to maintain proper diet and lifestyle habits, avoid public baths and swimming, and abstain from sexual activity.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Early symptoms of damp warts

Genital warts, also known as condyloma acuminata, are a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease. The early symptoms of genital warts manifest as small papules on the external genitals or around the anus. These are usually moist, soft, and pale pink in color. Over time, they gradually increase in number and size, potentially merging to form cauliflower-like or nipple-like growths. These can bleed or exude fluids when touched. It is crucial to seek timely and appropriate treatment for genital warts in their early stages to avoid serious complications.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can genital warts be effectively treated?

Genital warts, if treated formally and persistently over a long period, can be completely cured. This disease is caused by HPV virus infection, also known as the papillomavirus. The main route of transmission is still through sexual contact, but there is also a possibility of infection from staying in hotels, using public toilets, or bathing in public baths. Once infected, it is crucial to seek formal treatment, which involves removing the warts with laser surgery, and then combining antiviral medication orally with drugs that enhance immune function. Routine exercise to strengthen immunity, avoiding spicy and stimulating food, and refraining from alcohol can all aid in the treatment. During the treatment period, it is essential to avoid sexual contact to prevent cross-infection.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Are common warts and genital warts the same?

Common warts and genital warts are different. Although both common warts and genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, they belong to different subtypes of the virus, and their routes of infection also vary. Common contact or touching objects contaminated with the virus that causes common warts can lead to infection, and the affected areas can be located throughout various parts of the body, including the external genitalia, genitals, and perianal area. Genital warts are primarily transmitted through sexual contact and are a sexually transmitted disease. This disease is generally spread through sexual intercourse, leading to cross-infection between partners. The most common locations for genital warts are the external genitalia, perianal area, and the mouth. Genital warts generally do not grow on normal skin. Once genital warts appear, the treatment period is longer, and the recurrence rate is higher. Common warts usually can be treated successfully with one or two conventional treatments.