• Genital warts are growths around the genital or anal areas in both males and females caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV).
• There are many different types of HPV.
• It is possible to be infected with HPV without having genital warts.

(See more information below.)

• By direct skin to skin contact, which may occur during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who is infected.
• Some people may have no signs of infection and still infect others.
  

• Many men and women are infected with HPV without knowing it.
• If genital warts occur, they can appear within weeks, months or years after contact with an infected partner.
• Genital warts grow on moist areas such as the anus and genital areas in both men and women.
• They appear in various numbers, sizes and shapes - flat or like a cauliflower.
  

• A doctor or nurse can examine a woman or a man to find visible warts.
• In women, a pap smear may show abnormal cells. Further tests can show if HPV is present.
  

• Treatment depends on the size, amount, location of the warts, and whether or not they are bothering the person.
• Genital warts may be removed in several ways, including applying a solution directly to the warts, freezing (cryosurgery), using laser, or surgery.
• Warts may return after treatment.
  

• In women, some types of HPV cause abnormal changes in cervical cells which may slowly develop into cervical cancer.
• Most types of HPV do not lead to cancer.
• A regular pap smear will detect any changes in the cervix and any abnormalities can be treated early.
  

• Limit the number of sexual contacts.
• Avoid having sex with an infected person.
• Use a latex condom each time you have sex. Condoms do not always prevent the spread of HPV because they may not cover the skin where HPV is found.
• Women should have regular pap tests to find HPV and get treatment early.

For more information contact:
Your family doctor, local public health office, OR the following Sexual Health Clinics:

Saskatoon Sexual Health - Educational & Clinical Services
#100 - 310 Idylwyld Drive North
Saskatoon SK S7L 0Z2
To speak with a nurse Mon-Fri, 9-5 pm
Phone: 306-655-4642
(See link below for Saskatoon Sexual Health's website.)

Regina Communicable Disease/Sexual Health Program
Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region
2110 Hamilton Street
Regina SK S4P 2E3
Phone: 306-766-7788

Prince Albert Sexual Health Clinic
800 Central Avenue
2nd Floor, MacIntosh Mall
Prince Albert SK S6V 6G1
Phone: 306-765-6540

Battlefords Sexual Health Clinic
Rm. 104, 1192 - 101 Street
North Battleford SK S9A 0Z6
Phone: 306-937-6846