Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata or venereal warts, are a sexually transmitted disease that affects the moist areas of your genitals. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of genital warts include small gray cauliflower-like swellings, itching and bleeding with sexual intercourse. The human papilloma virus (HPV) is to blame for this contagious disease. There are specific steps to remove a genital wart.
Step 1
Go to your family doctor to obtain a prescription for imiquimod, trichloroacetic acid or podophyllin and podofilox. Imiquimod is a cream that is applied to your genital warts. According to the Mayo Clinic, this cream activates your immune system (defense system) to fight against HPV and remove genital warts. Trichloroacetic acid is a chemical used to burn your genital warts. Your doctor will apply this. Podophyllin and podofilox are plant-based substances that destroy your genital warts. Discuss with your doctor which treatment is best for you.
Step 2
Schedule a surgical procedure such as cryotherapy, electrocautery, surgical excision or laser treatments to remove your genital warts. Cryotherapy involves freezing your genital warts with liquid nitrogen. According to the Mayo Clinic, this creates a blister and your genital warts will fall off. Electrocautery uses electricity to burn off your warts. Surgical excision involves using a scalpel (blade) to cut off the genital warts. Laser treatments use an intensified light to remove recurring genital warts.
Step 3
Apply castor oil or aloe to your genital warts. This is a home remedy that may help remove your genital warts. Discuss with your doctor before trying these alternative remedies.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask your sexual partner(s) to see a doctor if they have genital warts, as they are very contagious. Schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor so she can check whether your genital warts are decreasing in prevalence.
- Avoid over-the-counter wart removal treatments, as they are not meant for genital warts.
Things You'll Need
- Imiquimod
- Trichloroacetic acid
- Podophyllin
- Podofilox
- Castor oil
- Aloe
