Genital Warts (Human Papillomavirus): Cause

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Cause

HPV infection is caused by a virus. More than 100 types of HPV have been found. Some types cause genital warts and some can lead to cervical cancer. Types 6 and 11 cause most genital warts. Other types such as 16 and 18 are high-risk and can cause abnormal cell changes on the cervix.

How the disease is spread (transmission)

HPV is spread by direct contact.

• The virus can be spread to or from the genitals, anus, mouth, or throat during sexual activities. But warts in the mouth or throat are extremely rare. Condoms can lower your risk of getting genital warts. You can prevent infection when you use them every time you have sex.
• After the infection occurs, it may spread to other areas of the genitals or to the anal area.
• You can spread the virus even if you do not have any symptoms of infection or any visible warts.
• There is a small chance that a pregnant woman can pass the virus to her baby. It is unknown if it is spread during vaginal delivery or if it is spread during the pregnancy. Most women with genital warts do not need to have a cesarean delivery. But your doctor might recommend a cesarean delivery if the genital warts would be in the way or bleed a lot during vaginal delivery.¹

Last updated:	July 02, 2008
Author:	Sandy Jocoy, RN
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC