Genital warts are small, fleshy growths on or around the genitals or anal area caused by infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus can be spread by genital contact of any sort. It may also be spread from a mother to her baby during birth. The warts may take weeks or even years to develop after infection.
Most eventually disappear, although this may take a long time. Infection is most likely to be passed on when warts are present.
Treatment may involve destroying the warts by freezing, heating, or applying medication, or surgery to remove them.