Healthier Scotland. Scottish Government

Genital warts testing

When can examination for genital warts can take place?

You can be checked for genital warts at any time after you have been in contact with the virus.

A doctor or nurse can usually tell whether you have genital warts simply by examining the genital area.

If none are visible, you may be asked to come back at a later date for another examination.

If everything in your genital area looks and feels normal to you, then you do not have genital warts. However, you could still carry the virus that causes them.

If you develop symptoms, then you should go back to your doctor or the sexual health service you attended.

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Where to get examined for genital warts

If you or your partner is worried that you may have genital warts, see a doctor straight away. You can visit your local GP surgery, or a sexual health service (for example a family planning or GUM clinic).

These are specialist clinics that deal with sexually transmitted infections, are completely confidential, and you and your partner can ‘self-refer’ (that means you can go along without having to see your GP first).

Find your nearest sexual health service

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How do I tell my partner that I have genital warts?

Some people can feel upset, angry, frightened or embarrassed about discussing sexually transmitted infections with their current or former partner(s).

If you have genital warts, you may need to tell your current and previous partner(s), so that they can also be tested and, if necessary, treated.

Nobody can force you to tell your partner(s) about having a sexually transmitted infection, but it is strongly recommended. Left untested and untreated, genital warts can be passed onto other people.

Read more about breaking bad news of sexually transmitted infections

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