How to Identify HPV Warts

HPV (human papilloma virus) is a common infection with more than 100 variations. It can cause warts on the hands, feet, mouth and upper respiratory system, but the best-known variations of HPV cause warts and sores in the genital area. Some types of genital HPV can cause cervical cancer. Identifying HPV is a matter of examining the warts carefully, considering your risk factors, and confirming the infection with a doctor.

Instructions

1. Look at the warts. Genital warts are flat sores, small cauliflower-shaped bumps or stem-like protrusions. Women most commonly get them on the vulva but they also can appear on the anus, cervix or inside the vagina. In men, the warts appear on the penis, scrotum and around the anus.

2. Consider your risk factors. Genital HPV is contracted through skin-on-skin contact during sexual intercourse and oral sex. HPV can also be contracted with the use of a condom.

3. See your doctor. Common HPV treatments include freezing the warts and eliminating them through the use of prescription medicine. If you are female, the doctor will be able to tell you whether your infection increases your risk of cervical cancer.

Tips & Warnings

• To reduce the risk of cervical cancer, doctors recommend that girls receive HPV vaccinations at age 11 or 12.

• Be aware that HPV can lie dormant for months or even years.

References

• Mayo Clinic
• Centers For Disease Control And Prevention