What causes genital warts?
There are more than 100 different known strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), and some kinds of the virus result in these nasty little warts.
How do you catch HPV?
HPV is an STD and occurs from having oral, vaginal or anal sex with someone who already has the virus. Bear in mind that condoms can't always protect you 100% because they may not cover all the infected skin, and genital warts are highly contagious.
How do you know you've got genital warts?
You will be able to see smooth flesh-coloured bumps or cauliflower-like bumps around the genitals and anus.
How do you treat genital warts?
Don't try to treat them yourself. You need to see a doctor to select the best treatment for you. The warts can be destroyed by creams, freezing, burning, lasering or cutting. The bad news is that the viral infection (HPV) can't be destroyed, which means that the warts can come back, but that doesn't happen for everyone. Click here to find your nearest treatment centre.
What if you don't get them treated
They may continue to grow and spread and anyone you have sex with will be put at risk of catching them. Certain types of HPV can lead to cervical, penile, anal and rectal cancers so get it checked out!
