HPV is the most common STD, but most of the time it isnt a big deal. It usually goes away on its own, and most people dont even know that they ever had HPV. Remember that most people who have sex get HPV at some point in their lives. You dont need to be ashamed or afraid.

Is having genital warts serious?

Genital warts are common and are caused by certain types of HPV. Genital warts can be annoying, but theyre treatable and arent dangerous.

Do you have genital warts for life?

Although HPV isnt curable in all cases, genital warts are treatable. You can also go extended periods of time without an outbreak, but it may not be possible to get rid of the warts forever. Thats because genital warts are only a symptom of HPV, which may become a chronic, lifelong infection for some.

Can stress cause warts?

Yes! Stress causes the release of hormones that build up over a long period of time. These hormones weaken the immune systems ability to fight off viruses like the one that causes warts.

Are warts only caused by HPV?

Common warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus is quite common and has more than 150 types, but only a few cause warts on your hands. Some strains of HPV are acquired through sexual contact.

How long until genital warts appear?

If you have symptoms, they will probably occur 2 to 3 months after infection. But you can have symptoms from 3 weeks to many years after infection. Visible genital warts appear only during active infection. But it is possible to spread the virus even if you cant see the warts.