Genital Warts Causes

Genital Warts are an infection of the skin on the genital and anal areas, and the mucous membranes (lining) of the vagina, cervix and rectum. They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV).

There are over 100 different types of HPV which can affect different parts of the body, including the hands and feet (warts on the feet are called verucca). Approximately 30 types of HPV can live in and around the genital and anal area but most genital warts are caused by just two types of virus.

The virus that causes genital warts is easily passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Anyone who is sexually active can get the virus, and pass it on.

• Genital warts can spread from one person to another during vaginal intercourse and by sharing sex toys. The virus can be spread by skin to skin contact so it can be passed on by close genital contact – you don’t need to have penetrative sex to pass it on.

• The virus will not pass through a condom but as condoms do not cover the entire genital area it is possible to infect genital skin that is not covered by the condom.

• The virus is most likely to be passed on when warts are present but it is still possible to pass on the virus after warts have disappeared.

• It is possible but very rare to develop warts in the mouth or on the lips from oral sex.

• Warts can spread from the genital area to the area around the anus without having anal sex.

• It is not thought that warts on the hands can be passed onto the genitals.

• It is possible for a preganat woman who has genital warts at the time to pass the warts onto her baby, but this is rare.

• You cannot get gential warts from hugging, kissing, sharing baths or bath towels, from swimming pools, toliet seats or from sharing cups, plates or cutlery.