What are the differences between genital warts and hemorrhoids?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
The differences between genital warts and hemorrhoids generally lie in their causes, symptoms, appearance of the lesions, affected anatomical sites, and laboratory examinations. Genital warts are caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) and spread through sexual contact or indirect contact with contaminated objects, making them a contagious disease. Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, result from congestion and dilation of the venous plexus in the anal canal or lower rectum.
Genital warts and hemorrhoids generally differ in terms of etiology, symptoms, lesion morphology, site of occurrence, and laboratory examinations. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Etiology: Genital warts are caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) and spread through sexual contact or indirect contact with contaminated objects; they are classified as infectious diseases. Hemorrhoids result from congestion and dilation of venous plexuses in the anal canal or lower rectum, associated with factors that increase abdominal pressure such as prolonged sitting, constipation, and pregnancy, and are not contagious.
2. Symptoms: Early genital warts appear as small, pale red papules, which later merge into cauliflower-like or papillary growths, with occasional itching or burning pain. Hemorrhoids primarily present with painless rectal bleeding; severe pain may occur when external or internal hemorrhoids become thrombosed or incarcerated, often accompanied by prolapse of anal masses, increased discharge, and itching.
3. Lesion morphology: Genital warts have a rough surface, appearing grayish-white, pink, or dirty gray, and bleed easily upon touch. Hemorrhoidal masses have a smooth surface, soft texture, and color similar to surrounding perianal skin; external hemorrhoids can be palpated as distinct lumps.
4. Site of occurrence: Genital warts commonly develop on the external genitalia and perianal area—frequently found on the glans penis and urethral opening in men, and on the labia majora, labia minora, and vaginal opening in women. Hemorrhoids occur exclusively in the anorectal region and are classified as internal, external, or mixed hemorrhoids.
5. Laboratory examination: Genital warts are diagnosed via acetic acid white test (local whitening) or histopathological biopsy (showing koilocytes). Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed through visual inspection, digital rectal examination, or anoscopy.
If abnormal growths around the anus or recurrent rectal bleeding are noticed, prompt consultation with a proctologist or dermatologist specializing in sexually transmitted diseases is recommended to avoid misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
