Genital Warts / HPV Treatment Services

Genital warts are a common condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While they’re typically not dangerous, they can be an indicator of a more serious underlying issue because certain strains of HPV can lead to more severe health problems, including cervical cancer. That’s why it’s essential to recognize the symptoms, understand the causes, and know the treatment options available.

How to Recognize Warts “Down There”

Genital warts are small bumps that appear in the genital area around the vulva, penis, scrotum, or anus. They’re usually flesh-colored or pink and can be tiny or grow into larger clusters, sometimes resembling a cauliflower. They’re caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). While some HPV strains are harmless, others can lead to more serious health issues like cervical or anal cancer.

Not everyone with genital warts will notice symptoms, but when they do, they can cause itching, discomfort, or mild pain. If you spot any unusual bumps “down there” or experience irritation, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment to help manage symptoms and prevent further spread.

How Genital Warts Spread

Genital warts spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity with someone who’s infected. It can also be passed along by sharing sex toys or towels with an infected person or through exposure to their genital fluids.

Even when there are no visible warts, HPV can still be transmitted, so someone could spread the virus without even realizing it. Certain factors—like having multiple sexual partners, skipping condom use, or having a weakened immune system—can also raise the risk of infection. In some cases, an infected mother may pass the virus to her baby during childbirth.

While condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, they do not fully protect against HPV, as the virus can infect areas not covered by the condom.

HPV and Genital Warts Treatment Options

While there is no cure for HPV, there are several treatment options available for managing and removing genital warts. A dermatologist or dermatology provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment based on the size, location, and number of warts.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy, or cryosurgery, treats the warts by freezing them with liquid nitrogen, which destroys the tissue and causes them to fall off. The procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office and may cause mild discomfort or a burning sensation. While this treatment is effective, some people may need more than one session to remove the warts.

Prescription Creams

Prescription creams are often used to treat genital warts, helping to shrink them and reduce their appearance. Most treatments require consistent application over several weeks to achieve the best results.

One commonly prescribed option is Imiquimod (sold under brand names like Aldara and Zyclara). This cream works by boosting the body’s immune system to fight the virus responsible for the warts, gradually making them smaller and less noticeable.

Podophyllin is a topical solution that works by disrupting the wart cells’ ability to divide and grow—it’s applied and washed off in the office.

Sinecatechins (Veregen) is an ointment made from green tea extract that can help reduce the size of warts.

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a chemical solution applied to genital warts in a dermatology office. It helps destroy the wart tissue and is often used when other treatments have been ineffective. It may need to be reapplied multiple times to achieve the desired results.

Other Treatment Options

Surgical removal may be necessary if the warts are large or resistant to other treatments. Laser treatment can be used to treat warts that haven’t responded to other treatments. The laser targets the wart tissue and destroys it with focused light energy. It’s often used for larger or more difficult-to-remove warts.

Immunotherapy involves using medications that boost the body’s immune response to fight the HPV virus. These treatments, such as imiquimod, help the body eliminate the virus more effectively.

Preventing Genital Warts and HPV

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent HPV, you can reduce your risk of infection and the development of genital warts by:

• Getting an HPV vaccine, which is a safe and effective way to protect against common strains of HPV, including the ones that cause genital warts and cervical cancer.
• Using protection like condoms can help reduce the transmission of HPV, although they do not provide complete protection against the virus.
• Limiting sexual partners can lower the likelihood of being exposed to HPV.
• Regular screenings, particularly for women, can help detect HPV infections early and prevent complications like cervical cancer.

Genital Warts Diagnosis and Treatment at Schweiger Dermatology Group

If you suspect you may have genital warts, book an appointment online in seconds or call 844-DERM-DOC for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With a variety of options available, our dermatologists and dermatology specialists can recommend the most appropriate course of action to address your specific needs.

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