How do Genital Warts occur?

Genital warts are transmitted from person to person by sexual activity. The warts are usually first seen 1 to 6 months and in some cases years after you have been infected with HPV. Take note though—you can be infected without having any visible warts.


HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. HPV is not passed through blood, semen, or other body fluids. Since it's not passed through blood you will be able to donate blood. A person can be infectious even if no symptoms are present, but the risk is probably greatest if contact is made with the warts themselves. The area most prone to infection are the thin mucous membranes of the vagina, vulva, penis, and scrotum.

Women who give birth can sometimes pass the warts to their child. There is little or no risk of catching HPV through towels or other inanimate objects.