Warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on any part of the body, including the hands, feet, and genitals.

While warts are typically harmless, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable, prompting some people to seek treatment.

One common myth about warts is that you can get them from oral sex. In this article, we’ll explore this myth and separate fact from fiction.

What are warts?

Warts are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV. There are more than 100 types of HPV, and each type can cause a different type of wart.

Some HPV types are also linked to certain cancers, such as cervical cancer, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer.

Warts can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most common on the hands and feet. They can also appear on the face, genitals, and anus. Warts are usually painless, but they can be itchy, uncomfortable, and unsightly.

How are warts spread?

Warts are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact with the virus. HPV can enter the body through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin, which can happen during sexual activity.

Warts can also spread from one part of the body to another through touch. For example, if you have a wart on your hand and touch another part of your body, you can spread the virus and develop a wart in that area as well.

Can you get warts from oral sex?

While warts can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, it is unlikely that you can get warts from oral sex.

This is because the types of HPV that cause genital warts are different from the types that cause warts on other parts of the body, such as the hands and feet.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the types of HPV that cause genital warts are not commonly found in the mouth or throat.

However, there are other types of HPV that can cause cancer in the mouth and throat, which can be spread through oral sex.

How can you protect yourself from warts?

The best way to protect yourself from warts is to avoid direct contact with the virus. If you have a wart, you should avoid touching it and try not to spread it to other parts of your body.

You should also try to avoid touching other people’s warts.

If you are sexually active, you should use condoms and dental dams to reduce your risk of getting HPV and other sexually transmitted infections. You can also get vaccinated against HPV, which can protect against certain types of warts and cancers.

How are warts treated?

Warts can be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as salicylic acid. If the warts are large or painful, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as cryotherapy (freezing the wart), laser treatment, or surgical removal.

If you have genital warts, you should see a healthcare provider for treatment. Genital warts can be treated with topical medications, such as imiquimod or podofilox, or with in-office procedures, such as cryotherapy or surgical removal.

The bottom line

Warts are a common skin condition caused by HPV. While warts can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, it is unlikely that you can get warts from oral sex.

However, it is possible to get HPV and other sexually transmitted infections from oral sex, so it is important to practice safe sex and get vaccinated against HPV.