Venereal warts are moist, soft, or flesh-colored swellings that are spread through sexual contact. This eMedTV Web page explains what causes them, describes where the warts may appear, and lists treatment options that are available.
Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause venereal warts. As this article on the eMedTV Web site explains, the most common cause is HPV-6 or HPV-11. Over 90 percent of venereal warts cases are linked to these types of HPV.
Venereal warts are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. This page on the eMedTV Web site further discusses how venereal warts transmission occurs and explains when and where symptoms usually appear.
Soft, moist, pink, or flesh-colored swellings are the most common symptoms of venereal warts. This eMedTV resource lists other possible symptoms and also describes where venereal warts may appear in the genital area.
A visual inspection is usually the best method for diagnosing venereal warts. This segment of the eMedTV library describes the tests that can be used to diagnose venereal warts and lists other conditions that share similar signs or symptoms.
Certain medical procedures and prescription medicines can be used for treating venereal warts. This eMedTV page lists specific drugs that are used in the treatment of venereal warts and describes the various types of surgeries that are available.
