Understanding Your Sexual Health - Genital Warts

What are genital warts?

Genital warts are small bumps on the skin. They can be on private parts. They are caused by a virus. The virus is called HPV. It's important to see a doctor if you think you have them.

Helpful Tools:

• Ask a grown-up if you need help.
• Use pictures to understand better.
• Ask your doctor questions if you don't understand.

How do people get genital warts?

What do genital warts look like?

Genital warts are small lumps you might find on your skin. They can be white, pink, or skin-colored.

These lumps can be smooth or bumpy.

It is important to see a doctor if you think you have genital warts.

Using a magnifying glass might help you see them better.

If reading is hard, ask someone you trust to read it with you.

Can genital warts be treated?

Yes, genital warts can be treated. If you have warts, go to the doctor. The doctor can help make them better. Sometimes they use creams. Other times, they use a special tool to remove them.

If you want help reading or understanding, ask someone you trust to help you. You can also use pictures or easy-to-read books about health.

Can HPV be cured?

HPV means human papillomavirus. It is a virus that can affect people. There is no cure for HPV. But most of the time, the body's own immune system can get rid of it.

Here are some tips that can help:

• Get regular check-ups with your doctor. This can help find any problems early.
• There are vaccines that can help protect you against some types of HPV.
• Healthy habits like eating well, sleeping enough, and washing hands can help your body stay strong.

Can genital warts come back after treatment?

Yes, genital warts can come back after you treat them. This happens because the virus that causes the warts might still be in your body.

Here are some tips to help:

• Keep your skin healthy and clean.
• Talk to your doctor if you have questions or worries.
• If the warts come back, see your doctor for more help.

How often do people get genital warts in the UK?

Genital warts are small bumps on private parts. They are a type of virus. In the UK, many people have them.

Genital warts are common and can be treated by a doctor. It is important to see a doctor if you have bumps.

To help understand more, you can:

• Use picture guides or videos to learn about genital warts.
• Ask a friend or family member to read with you.
• Visit a clinic for advice. They can help explain.

How can I stop from getting genital warts?

Genital warts are small bumps on the skin. They can appear on private parts. They are caused by a virus called HPV.

Here's how to help stop getting genital warts:

• Get the HPV vaccine: A doctor can give you a special shot that helps protect you from the virus.
• Use condoms: Wearing a condom during sex can help keep you safe.
• Talk to your partner: It is important to talk about staying healthy with the person you have sex with.
• Go for check-ups: Visit the doctor regularly to make sure everything is okay.

If you want more help or have questions, tell a doctor or a trusted adult. They can give you good advice and help.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine helps protect you from a virus that can make you sick. It is important to know who needs it.

• Kids and Teens: Kids should get the vaccine when they are 11 or 12 years old. Teenagers who did not get the vaccine before can still get it later.
• Young Adults: Young adults can get the vaccine if they did not get it when they were younger. It is good for people up to 26 years old.

If you are not sure what to do, ask your doctor or nurse. They can help you decide what is best for you.

Can genital warts cause cancer?

Genital warts are small bumps on the skin. They are caused by a virus called HPV.

Some types of HPV can cause cancer. But the types that cause genital warts usually do not cause cancer.

If you have genital warts, it is good to see a doctor for help.

Using protection like condoms can help keep you safe from HPV.

Do I need to see a doctor if I think I have genital warts?

If you think you have genital warts, it is good to see a doctor.

A doctor can help you find out if you have them and tell you what to do next.

Here are some tips to help you:

• Ask a family member or friend to go with you to the doctor.
• Write down your questions so you remember to ask them.
• Look for pictures or videos that explain things clearly.

Can genital warts cause problems during my pregnancy?

Genital warts are small bumps in your private areas. If you are pregnant, it's important to talk to your doctor about them. Your doctor can help make sure you and your baby stay healthy. Here are some things to remember:

• Tell your doctor if you have genital warts.
• Your doctor will tell you what to do to stay healthy.
• Some medicines might not be safe during pregnancy.
• Keep regular check-ups with your doctor.

To help understand more, you can:

• Ask questions if you are unsure about anything.
• Use pictures or drawings to learn more.
• Ask a family member or friend to help you.

Can I have sex if I have genital warts?

Yes, you can have sex if you have genital warts. But it's important to keep a few things in mind:

• Talk to your partner: Let them know about your warts before having sex. This helps them understand and decide what feels okay for them.
• Use protection: Things like condoms can help lower the chance of sharing warts.
• See a doctor: A doctor can give you advice and help you with treatment.

Tools for help:

• Pictures: Look at pictures that show what's happening. They might help you understand better.
• Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask a doctor or someone you trust for help. They can give you answers that help you feel more comfortable.

Can you get genital warts if you have only one sexual partner?

Genital warts can affect anyone, even if you have just one sexual partner. They are caused by a virus called HPV, which you can get through sexual contact. It's not only people with many partners who can get them.

If you're worried about genital warts, talk to a doctor or nurse. They can help you understand and manage your health.

Using protection, like condoms, during sex can lower the risk of getting genital warts.

Can doctors test for genital warts?

Yes, doctors can look to see if you have genital warts. Here is what they might do:

• Look at the bumps on your skin.
• Ask you about any changes or feelings in that area.
• Use a special light or tools to see better.

If you think you have genital warts, visit a doctor. They can help you find out. A parent or guardian can go with you if you like.

For support, you can talk to a trusted adult about your worries.