Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Genital Warts are the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the world.
There are more than 100 types of HPV and more than 30 types are sexually transmitted.
It is estimated that about 75% of sexually active Canadians will have at least one HPV infection during their lifetime.
Genital warts are the most easily recognized sign of genital HPV infection.
Symptoms
- Most people infected with HPV don't have symptoms. In others, symptoms are often so mild they don't know they are infected and may still pass the virus on to others.
- Genital warts are usually flesh-coloured or white. They can be different sizes and shapes.
- They may look like a raised small cauliflower or may be flat.
- Like other kinds of warts, they may appear individually or in a cluster.
- In males, they can be found on the scrotum, penis or around the anus.
- In females, they may be on the vulva or around the vagina or anus or they may be hidden inside the vagina or on the cervix.
- Genital warts may cause pain, itching and bleeding.