Genital Warts Treatment — Discreet, Effective Relief

What are genital warts?

Genital warts are small, soft growths on or around the genitals, anus, or thighs. Caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), they may appear as single bumps or clusters. Warts can also cause itching, burning, or discomfort during sex. Even if you don’t see visible warts, you may still carry and spread HPV.

For more, see the NHS Genital Warts Overview for a trusted explanation of symptoms and causes.

Causes and risk factors

HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. You’re at higher risk if you have multiple sexual partners, don’t use condoms, or have a weakened immune system.

While condoms reduce your risk, they don’t eliminate it — warts can appear on skin not covered by a condom.

Symptoms of genital warts

Symptoms often appear 1–3 months after exposure but can take longer. You may notice:

• Flesh-coloured bumps or cauliflower-like clusters

• Itching or burning

• Discomfort or bleeding during sex

• Unusual discharge or altered urine flow (if warts obstruct the urethra)

See our Bacterial Vaginosis Treatments if you’re also experiencing unusual vaginal discharge not explained by warts.

Are genital warts dangerous?

Low-risk HPV types (mainly 6 and 11) cause genital warts. These types rarely cause cancer. However, high-risk HPV types (16 and 18) can cause cervical and other genital cancers. The HPV vaccine (e.g., Gardasil) protects against these high-risk strains.

Diagnosing genital warts

A healthcare professional diagnoses genital warts through a visual exam. If warts are suspected in the vagina, anus, or urethra, your provider may perform a speculum, proctoscope, or urethroscope exam.

Worried about your risk? Book a confidential consultation with our Click Pharmacy online doctors.

How long does treatment take?

Most people see improvement within 4–8 weeks of starting treatment. Persistent or severe warts may take several months or require additional treatment cycles.

Remember: treating warts does not remove the HPV virus, so flare-ups can happen again, especially during times of stress or illness.

Preventing genital warts

Reduce your risk with these steps:

• Use condoms or dental dams for vaginal, anal, and oral sex

• Limit your number of sexual partners

• Get the HPV vaccine (recommended by the NHS Vaccination Schedule)

• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks

• Wash or cover shared sex toys between partners

FAQs

Can over-the-counter wart treatments be used on genital warts?

No — creams for hand or foot warts are too harsh and can damage delicate genital skin. Always use prescription treatments designed for genital warts.

Can I still have sex if I have genital warts?

It’s best to avoid sexual activity during outbreaks. HPV can still spread even if you use a condom.

Do genital warts always come back?

Some people never have another outbreak, while others may have occasional recurrences. A strong immune system and avoiding triggers can reduce the risk of flare-ups.