These are small fleshy growths or bumps that occur around the genital or anal area.They are spread during intimate sexual contact or skin to skin contact. Condoms cannot provide complete protection from this STI as the skin around the genital area can still become infected when a condom is used.

Genital warts are the second most common STI behind chlamydia and over the last 40 years the number of diagnosed cases has steadily increased.

Genital warts usually appear within two to three months of being infected but the incubation period can be up to one year before symptoms appear.

The appearance of the warts are different in men and women and can appear as one wart or a cluster that grow together to form a cauliflower like structure. In women they start as a small gritty feeling lump that gradually gets larger and in men they are similar to the types of warts found on people's hands.

The warts are usually painless but can become itchy and irritated and can occasionally cause bleeding during intercourse. Warts can develop near or in the urethra which can disrupt the passing of urine as well as cause irritation.

There are several treatments available for genital warts such as creams and cryotherapy (freezing); they have a good success rate but it can take up to three months before any improvement can be seen. Some products can only be applied by medical practitioners meaning that multiple visits to the GP surgery or clinic will be required.