Gynecological examination for genital warts (human papillomavirus)

Examination Overview

A gynecological examination for genital warts includes:

• Visual examination of the vulva.
• Speculum examination.
• Bimanual pelvic examination.
• Rectal examination.
• Rectovaginal examination.

The visual examination and the speculum examination are the most important for diagnosing genital warts.

Some health professionals may use an acetowhite test to make the warts more visible. A vinegar solution (weak acetic acid) may be applied to the skin to show the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. A slight burning sensation may occur when the acetic acid is applied. The acetowhite test is not routinely recommended to confirm genital warts.

The size, position, and appearance of the rectum, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries are determined during these examinations.

Why It Is Done

A gynecological examination may be done as part of a routine checkup or to determine whether you have genital warts or other sexually transmitted infections.

Results

Findings of a gynecological examination may include the following.

Normal

Genital warts are not seen during the examination. HPV may be present even if the examination is normal and no genital warts are seen. Many women infected with HPV do not have visible genital warts.

Abnormal

Genital warts are seen during the examination. Treatment is based on:

• The number, size, and location of visible warts.
• Your symptoms.
• Your preferences.

An HPV infection that causes an abnormal Pap test will be treated differently than HPV that causes visible genital warts.

What To Think About

Genital warts may be discovered during a routine gynecological examination. Many women do not notice genital warts if the warts are small or are on the vagina or cervix.

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Author:	Carrie Henley Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: November 16, 2006
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
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