Genital Warts |
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DESCRIPTION
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Genital warts grow on or around your sex organs. They are seen most often in young adults. In the United States, warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.
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CAUSES
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The warts are caused by the human papilloma (PAP-ih-LOW-muh) virus (HPV). This virus is spread by vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
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SYMPTOMS
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You'll notice one or more warts--small, soft bumps that can be pink, red, white, or brown. In men, they appear in or around the opening of the penis or around the rectum. Women may develop them inside the vagina, rectum, or the urinary canal. They may also appear in the genital area (between the legs). Left untreated, the warts may spread and grow.
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CARE
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The doctor may give you a medicine to remove the warts. They can also be removed by freezing, burning, or cutting. Since HPV can cause cancer, it's important to get rid of the infection completely. If you are pregnant (or think you might be), tell the doctor.
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