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I think I have a wart on my genitals, does this mean that I have HPV?

Lumps, bumps, rashes or sores in the genital area can be worrisome and it’s possible to mistake them for warts. However, warts are infectious and are caused by the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus.) HPV infection is very common and most people who are sexually active may have it. There are many types of HPV and it can infect both men and women. Consulting a health care provider can be helpful to confirm, treat and manage genital warts.

HPV can spread to others while having sex or from skin-to-skin contact. Since genital warts can appear in and around the genitals, condoms may not completely reduce the risk of transmission. Also vaccination against HPV is another way to protect against genital warts and HPV-related cancers.

I suggest that you consult your health care provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

The Province of Manitoba has an HPV page that you may find helpful.