infections
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
Symptoms of HPV Infection
In women, genital warts can occur on the vulva, vagina, and/or skin in the groin area. In men, warts usually occur on the penis, especially under the foreskin in uncircumcised men, or in the urethra. In all people, genital warts may develop in the area around and inside the anus, especially in people who engage in anal sex. Genital warts are usually caused by types of HPV that are unlikely to cause cancer. Warts cause no symptoms in many people but cause occasional burning pain, itching, or discomfort in some. Genital warts are easily visible and are often noticed by the person with the warts. The warts usually appear 1 to 6 months after infection with HPV, beginning as tiny, soft, moist, pink or gray growths. They grow rapidly and become rough, irregular bumps, which sometimes grow out from the skin on narrow stalks. Their rough surfaces make them look like a small cauliflower. Warts often grow in clusters. Warts may grow more rapidly and spread more widely in pregnant women and in people who have a weakened immune system, such as those who have HIV infection. If HPV causes precancer or cancer, it may cause no symptoms, or the infection can cause bleeding or a visible lesion or mass. Advanced cancer may cause other symptoms (see also Symptoms , 