Genital Warts Removal & Treatment in Boston

What are genital warts?

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) that appear in the genital area (Females: vulva, vagina, cervix, groin; Males: penis, scrotum, thigh, and groin). Of the several types of HPV, only a few cause genital warts. These are one of the more common forms of warts people deal with.

Appearance

Genital warts vary in size but are usually small bumps that are either skin-colored or slightly darker
They may appear scattered or in clusters
Growths may be raised or flat and smooth or rough
May itch, burn, hurt, or bleed but usually painless

Do genital warts spread?

Genital warts spread from one person with HPV to another through sexual contact or even through childbirth (infected mother to baby). These warts do not appear immediately and may take months to appear after sexual contact with someone with an HPV infection.

Treatment for Genital Warts

Genital warts can go away without treatment. However, treating genital warts lowers the risk of spreading the virus.

Medicine:

Podofilox for external warts to prevent wart cell growth
Imiquimod strengthens the immune system to fight the infection

Procedures:

Cryosurgery (freezing)
Trichloroacetic acid treatment

Note: Treatment can remove the warts but may not completely get rid of HPV. If you still have HPV, you can still spread the virus even if the warts have not returned.

Prevention:

HPV vaccine, protection during intercourse.

Genital Wart Consultation

If you have genital warts, we strongly encourage you to book an appointment for a consultation for treatment. Genital warts can be contagious and difficult to treat, so it’s a good idea to consult a board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible.

Learn more at the American Academy of Dermatology: AAD Genital warts.