Impact of genital human papillomavirus warts on sexual function and marital relationships: A systematic review of studies from 2018 to 2025

Background: Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) warts are among the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, with potential long-term consequences for sexual health and intimate relationships. While clinical aspects of HPV warts are well documented, their psychosocial and marital impacts remain underexplored. Objectives: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of genital HPV warts on sexual function, intimacy, and marital relationships among affected couples. Methods: Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-analyses 2020 guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched for studies published from January 2018 up to June 2025. Eligible studies included observational, qualitative, and mixed-method research addressing psychosocial, sexual, and relational outcomes in adults diagnosed with genital HPV warts. Data on study characteristics, participant demographics, outcome measures, and key findings were extracted and synthesized narratively. Results: Ten eligible studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing a total of approximately 775 participants. Genital HPV warts were consistently associated with reduced sexual desire, avoidance of intercourse, decreased sexual satisfaction, and higher rates of sexual dysfunction. Psychosocial effects included anxiety, shame, lowered self-esteem, and concerns regarding the partner’s fidelity. Marital impacts ranged from increased relational conflict to, in some cases, marital separation. Qualitative studies highlighted a significant communication gap between partners, often exacerbated by stigma and lack of sexual health counseling. Conclusion: Genital HPV warts have substantial negative effects on sexual function and marital relationships, extending beyond physical symptoms to deeply affect psychosocial well-being. Clinicians should integrate sexual counseling and partner communication strategies into HPV wart management protocols. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are warranted to develop effective psychosocial support programs for affected couples.