What are the early signs of genital warts?

Genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often appear as small growths in the genital or anal area and may develop weeks to months after exposure. In this episode, we explain early symptoms and how HPV-related conditions are assessed in Europe.

In this episode, we cover:

• What genital warts are (benign skin growths caused by low-risk HPV types)

• Early appearance: small flesh-coloured or grey bumps

• Texture changes: smooth, flat, or cauliflower-like clusters

• Common locations in men and women

• Itching, irritation, or bleeding (less common)

• Transmission through skin-to-skin sexual contact

• The role of HPV vaccination in prevention

• When topical treatment or procedural removal ...