"What is the difference between HPV and warts?"
There are over 100 known types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Genital warts are one manifestation of this virus. HPV type 6 and 11 are tested during pap exams at the gynecologist as these types are of particular concern to the health of a woman's cervix.

"My girlfriend says she has HPV. Does this mean I am going to get warts?"
She most likely had a pap test which did a screening for HPV. If she tells you that she has this then she has been screened for two types of the virus which can cause changes in her cervix and require follow up. Males may have minimal symptoms but do generally will not develop visible genital warts from HPV 6 and 11. Keep in mind that these are two types of the Human Papilloma Virus and several of these types of virus are responsible for genital warts.

"How long after sex does it take for warts to show up?"
The incubation period after exposure can be up to 3 months before warts show up.

"Will I still be able to have healthy children if I get warts?"
Yes, but be sure to aggressively treat the warts whenever there is an outbreak.

"I heard that if warts get around your anus they can lead to cancer."
This is true and the anal cancer rate is estimated at 35 cases per 100,000 persons. This rate seems to be higher in HIV affected persons.

"How are warts treated?"
Genital warts are treated with cryotherapy (localized freezing), acidic solutions, electrocautery and laser ablation procedures.

"What is the cure rate for genital warts?"
There is no true cure for warts but there is control and some sources cite that treatment can eradicate 60-80% of warts for extended periods with repeated treatment.

"Is every bump on my penis a potential wart?"
No, there are many normal types of skin bumps usually having to do with hair follicles or sweat glands.

"How do you test for warts in males?"
Visual inspection can detect genital and anal warts. Some people are infected and will show no signs that they can transmit this to others.

"Is the genital wart transmitted by skin contact or semen contact?"
The virus goes from the site of the outbreak to the sensitive skin on the partner and transmission rate is increased by friction and microtrauma (rough sex). The virus for warts is not carried in semen.

"Can I put a genital wart into my eye?"
Yes, 'autoinnoculation' is possible so keep your hands clean after touching your genital area since there may be viral transmission.

"How come I don't get genital warts on my hands or when I shake hands with others?"
The skin on your hands is a good barrier and transmission is not likely this way. Eyes, vaginal tissue, urethral and colorectal tissue are more susceptible tissues and more permeable to infection.

"How many types of genital warts are there?"
Four. Condyloma acuminate, keratotic warts, popular warts and flat warts.