Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papilloma virus. Nearly 70 different strains of the virus exist, with several causing genital warts. Genital warts may appear on the penis, vagina, vulva or cervix. Generally, most people do not have any symptoms of an HPV infection or genital warts. A person may still transmit the virus even if a genital wart outbreak is not present. If a person becomes infected with HPV, they may or may not develop genital warts. Nearly 30 percent of genital warts disappear without treatment, reports the Mayo Clinic. Genital warts must always be treated by a medical professional; over-the-counter products should not be used.
Step 1
Visit a medical professional to have the genital warts examined. Do not delay having an exam. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the longer a genital outbreak is present, the harder it is to treat. Schedule your exam with a general practitioner, or, if you are a woman, with your obstetrician-gynecologist, or ob-gyn.
Step 2
Discuss the symptoms you are experiencing as well as recent sexual partners or unprotected sex you have participated in. Be prepared for a physical exam. Ask questions how to prevent infecting current and future sexual partners and about the different treatment options available.
Step 3
Allow the medical professional to apply trichloroacetic acid if you choose to have genital warts chemically burned from the skin. Other more invasive treatments include cryptotherapy, or freezing warts with liquid nitrogen, and laser therapy. More than one in-office treatment may be required. Larger warts, pregnancy or warts not responding to medication may require these invasive treatments.
Step 4
Apply the prescription ointment imiquimod at home, as directed by your doctor. Do not participate in sexual activity when using imiquimod, as the ointment may cause irritation and weaken condoms, according to Drugs.com. Rub the ointment onto clean skin and leave in place between six and 10 hours, then wash off, advises Drugs.com. The ointment is commonly used three days a week for 16 weeks.
Step 5
Schedule a follow-up exam so the doctor can determine if the initial treatment was successful or if additional treatment is necessary. Receive a Pap smear annually if you are a woman who has suffered from genital warts, or if your partner suffers from the condition.
Tips and Warnings
- Even if current visible warts are removed, recurring infections may occur. Genital warts appear in all different shapes and sizes; some may be so small they are not visible to the eye, according to MedlinePlus.com. MedlinePlus reports that most sexually active women become infected with HPV, yet most cases resolve themselves within five years.
Things You'll Need
- Trichloroacetic acid
- Imiquimod
