How to determine if you have genital warts

Written by Zhang Jian Bo
Dermatology
Updated on April 20, 2025
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Genital warts usually grow on the skin mucous membranes, primarily around the external genitalia or anal area, presenting as wart-like lesions. Normally, the external genitalia and anal canal should feel smooth, without any foreign bodies. As soon as any growth appears, it's important to note that genital warts often resemble cauliflower, papillae, or cock's comb shapes, by which time the growth has already reached a larger stage. If wart-like protrusions appear initially, one should seek medical advice at a hospital. If uncertain about whether the condition is genital warts and there is a history of high-risk sexual behaviors, it's advisable to consult a specialist dermatologist or venereologist. Experienced doctors can make a preliminary assessment using the acetic acid test.

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Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is highly contagious and recurrent. Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted disease, primarily transmitted through direct sexual contact. Some patients might be infected through contact with contaminated towels or bedding, such as in hotels, during bathing, or using a toilet, although the chances of such infections are very low. Clinically, the infections are mainly due to sexual contact. After contracting this disease, it's crucial to seek standardized treatment at a reputable hospital. Common treatments include using lasers to remove the warts, followed by topical or injectable interferon treatments. The treatment period can be lengthy and may often involve recurrent outbreaks requiring repeated treatments. With persistent, long-term treatment, it is possible to completely cure the condition.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Will pseudosharp be itchy?

Pseudovestibular papillomatosis mostly does not cause itching, but it is possible for some individuals to experience itching symptoms, which depend on each person’s specific circumstances. Typically, pseudovestibular papillomatosis appears as clusters of smooth, white or pale red bumps the size of fish eggs. They are usually found on the inner sides of the female labia minora and the vestibule of the vagina, and do not produce noticeable symptoms. The acetic acid white test is also negative. Because pseudovestibular papillomatosis is related to the irritation from female genital secretions, severe vaginal inflammation can potentially cause itching due to local irritation. In such cases, it is important to improve immunity, exercise regularly, change sanitary pads frequently, bathe often, and actively manage vaginal inflammation to alleviate symptoms. Some individuals mistakenly treat pseudovestibular papillomatosis as actual genital warts after visiting unregulated facilities, which is unnecessary.

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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 Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Flat warts and genital warts are caused by the same virus?

Flat warts and condyloma acuminata both belong to the human papillomavirus (HPV), causing benign proliferations on the skin and mucous membranes. Clinically, common types include common warts, flat warts, plantar warts, and condyloma acuminata, among others. However, the specific subtypes of infections they cause vary. Flat warts are often caused by HPV type 3, typically seen in children and adolescents, and commonly occur on the face, backs of hands, and forearms. The typical lesions are flat, raised papules the size of rice grains or soybeans, round or oval in shape. Among all clinical HPV infections, flat warts have the highest rate of spontaneous resolution, although a minority of patients may experience recurrent episodes. Condyloma acuminata, on the other hand, is classified as a type of sexually transmitted disease. The specific HPV types involved include HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, among others. HPV infects the epithelial tissue and is prevalent among sexually active adolescents, with a latency period generally ranging from 1 to 8 months, averaging 3 months.

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Can genital warts be cured?

Genital warts are a disease caused by human papillomavirus infection, mostly transmitted through sexual contact, and are highly contagious and recurrent. Although they can ultimately be completely cured, the treatment process is very tortuous and the course of treatment is relatively long. During treatment, try to avoid sexual contact, abstain from spicy and irritating foods, exercise more, and enhance immunity. The most common treatment approach is to use laser to directly remove the warts, then take oral and topical antiviral medications, and adhere to the treatment long-term. After recovery, it is also important to regulate one's diet and lifestyle habits, avoid public baths and swimming pools, and minimize sexual contact with others.