The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the cause of genital warts. As the virus that cuses the flu, HPV come in many different strands, more than 100 of them. Some strands cause plantar warts, and warts on the hands, some strands cause cervical cancer, and then there are two strands responsible for 90% of genital warts.

While some strands of HPV cause cervical cancer, only rarely do the strands causing venereal warts cause cancer.

How do you get the virus? HPV is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner. Genital warts is one of the most common STD's in the US, infecting about one million each year.

Someone who is infected with genital warts is estimated to infect two out of three people they have sexual contact with, making genital warts highly contagious. The transmission can occur during vaginal, oral or anal intercourse.
Any skin to skin contact. Condoms are not  very effective barriers since the virus, along with the warts can be in the general genital area.

Genital warts can look like any other wart. It can also be just a small spot on the skin in the genital or anal area. They can be very small, and can get quite large if left untreated. Untreated genital warts can become quite unsightly and can cause emotional distress.

If you or your partner suspect you may have genital warts, first of all, don't panic. It is not the end of the world. Next, get a proper diagnosis in order to get proper treatment.

Genital warts, being a virus, do not have a cure, but there are many treatment options to make the warts go away and be less likely to re-appear.