Causes
Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a family of more than 80 common viruses. Many types of HPV cause harmless skin warts . These warts are often found on the fingers or feet. Only a few types are thought to cause genital warts.
HPV is easily spread during oral, genital, or anal sex with an infected partner. About two-thirds of people who have sex with a partner who has genital warts will also develop them. Warts can take several weeks or months to appear.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for HPV and genital warts include:
- Age 15-30 years old
- Multiple sexual partners
- Women whose first male sexual partner has had two or more previous sexual partners *²
- Sex without condoms
- Sex at an early age
- Skin-to-skin contact with an infected partner
- Previous history of genital warts
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Taking oral contraceptives
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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