What are the symptoms of genital warts?

While many people may not realize they are infected with HPV, non-cancer-causing types of HPV, especially types 6 and 11, can lead to genital warts. 

As one of the few visible side effects of HPV infection, genital warts are often the only indication of HPV. They can occur both externally on the body or internally (inside the anus, throat/mouth, and vagina). Typically they appear as: 

• Red, white, or flesh-colored
• Large or small in size
• Flat or raised
• Individually or as a cluster/group 
• Smooth on the surface or cauliflower-like 
  

Genital warts are often painless but itching or burning may accompany them. Uncommonly, genital warts may bleed when disrupted. 

Vaginal Genital Warts:

Genital warts can appear on the external skin of the vulva, vagina, anus/buttocks, or thighs, and the internal membranes (the inside) of the urethra, vagina, cervix, and rectum. 

Genital Warts in Penises:

Genital warts can appear on the external skin of the penis, anus/buttocks, scrotum, or thighs and the internal membrane (the inside) of the urethra and rectum. 

Oral HPV:

The strains of HPV which can lead to genital warts can also cause warts in the throat and mouth. These warts will often not be visible and are identifiable by their symptoms, which may include:

• Pain when swallowing
• A sore throat that won't go away
• Vocal hoarseness
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Swollen lymph nodes
• An earache
  

People with penises experience higher rates of oral HPV, especially if they smoke. Persons living with HIV have an elevated incidence rate of HPV and are more likely to develop genital warts as a result of HPV infection. 

Resources:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/human-papillomavirus-(hpv)-and-cervical-cancer

https://www.cps.ca/en/documents/position/HPV