What is HPV?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a family of more than a hundred virus types spread through skin and mucosal contact during sex. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections.[1]
Broadly, some types cause genital warts, while high-risk types can cause cell changes that may lead to cancers of the cervix, anus, penis and throat.[1],[2]
Why vaccination matters
The HPV vaccine prevents new infection with the types it covers, including both cancer-causing and wart-causing types.[1] It is an effective form of cancer prevention, and it benefits men as well as women, protecting against warts and HPV-related cancers.
It is important to understand that the vaccine does not treat existing infection or warts.[1]
How common is HPV?
HPV is very common; most sexually active people acquire it at some point. Most infections are cleared by the immune system within one to two years and do not lead to cancer.[1] Rates of infection, warts and cancer differ by body site and population.
How HPV causes disease
About 90% of genital warts are caused by HPV types 6 and 11, which are low-risk and do not cause cancer.[2] High-risk types such as 16 and 18, if they persist, can cause precancerous changes that may progress to cancer over years.[1],[2]
So having genital warts does not mean you will get cancer, although someone with warts may carry other types as well.
How it is diagnosed
Genital warts are usually diagnosed by examination: raised, flesh-coloured or pink bumps, sometimes rough, on the genitals, anus or groin.[2] Atypical lesions, such as firm, bleeding, ulcerated or treatment-resistant ones, may need a biopsy.
Cervical screening is a separate process with its own guidance; it is not done by looking for warts.[2]
Treating warts and getting vaccinated
Wart treatment. Options include creams applied at home, freezing (cryotherapy) or surgical removal, chosen by size, number, location and preference.[2] Warts can recur, and no treatment is also an option, because some clear on their own.
Vaccine schedule. The number of doses depends on age at the start and immune status. People who start before age 15 generally need two doses; those starting at 15 or older, or with weakened immunity, need three.[1]
Who should be vaccinated. CDC recommends routine vaccination in adolescence, catch-up through age 26, and shared decision-making for selected adults aged 27–45. Licensing and access vary by country.[1]
After vaccination, people with a cervix still need recommended cervical screening, because the vaccine does not cover every type.[1],[2]
How we care for you at Dr. Kris Clinic
We examine genital lesions privately, confirm whether they are warts and choose treatment to suit you, in English or Thai. If a lesion looks atypical, we arrange further testing.
We offer HPV vaccination for women and men and advise how many doses you need. For people at higher risk of anal cancer, such as some people living with HIV, we also advise on screening.
Frequently asked questions
If I have genital warts, will I get cancer?
No. Most warts are caused by low-risk types, but other types can be present too, so follow recommended screening.
I already have warts. Can I still be vaccinated?
Yes. The vaccine will not treat existing warts but can protect against types you have not acquired.
Should men get the HPV vaccine?
It is worth considering. It helps prevent warts and HPV-related cancers in men too.
I'm over 26. Can I still be vaccinated?
Some adults aged 27–45 may benefit. Discuss it with a doctor to decide together.
Get vaccinated when eligible and continue recommended organ-based screening.[1] Warts have several treatment options, and atypical lesions should be examined.
Talk to a doctor about this
Confidential care in Surat Thani, the mainland gateway to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Tue–Fri 17:00–20:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–15:00 (UTC+7)
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Dr. Krida Uakridathikarn (Dr. Kris)
Board-certified family physician with certificate training in clinical sexology and sexual medicine. He works at Suratthani Hospital and provides sexual health, hormone and LGBTQ+ inclusive care at Dr. Kris Clinic. Profile and CV
References
- CDC: HPV Vaccine Recommendations
- CDC STI Guidelines: Anogenital Warts
- NYSDOH AI: Screening for Anal Dysplasia and Cancer in Adults With HIV (online guideline)
Keep reading
Main guide: HIV & STI prevention
Which STI Tests Do You Need, and When?
Syphilis: Symptoms, Testing and Stage-Based Treatment
Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia: Symptoms, Testing and Proper TreatmentThis article is general education, not personal medical advice or a promise of results. Diagnosis and treatment require assessment by a doctor. Content reflects the cited sources as of the update date.