Genital Warts vs. Herpes: What's the Difference? - Verywell Health
Genital warts and genital herpes are sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are caused by different viruses but may appear in similar parts of the body. Both STIs may go unnoticed, as they don't always cause symptoms. Both are also highly contagious. This article will discuss genital warts and genital herpes, including the causes of these infections, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Business / Getty Images Causes Genital warts and genital herpes can be passed through direct skin-to-skin contact. However, they are caused by different viruses. Genital Warts Genital warts are a form of sexually transmitted infection. They are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is spread by direct physical contact with someone infected with HPV who has the virus on their skin. A person may have the virus on their skin even without the presence of visible warts. It is commonly passed between people