Genital warts — treatment options explained
Reviewed by the My London Pharmacy clinical team, Zeenah Araim, Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
·29 July 2026
·5 min read
Quick answer
Genital warts are small growths caused by certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are harmless but can be bothersome. Treatments include prescription creams applied at home and procedures carried out in a clinic. A clinician can advise which approach suits your warts, and the HPV vaccine helps prevent them.
What genital warts are
Genital warts are soft growths that appear on or around the genitals or anus. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically low-risk types, most often types 6 and 11, that lead to warts rather than the high-risk types linked to cervical and other cancers. They are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK.
Warts are passed on through close skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex, rather than through blood or bodily fluids. Because the virus is spread by skin contact, condoms reduce but do not completely remove the risk. They are harmless and not dangerous, though understandably many people want them treated for comfort and peace of mind.
There is no need to feel embarrassed; sexual health teams see genital warts very often and treat them routinely. Having them does not mean a partner has been unfaithful, as the virus can stay in the skin for a long time before warts appear. Understanding this helps take the worry out of a diagnosis and lets you focus on the straightforward business of treating them.
How to recognise them
Genital warts can appear as small fleshy bumps, or as larger cauliflower-like clusters. They may be raised or flat, and are usually painless, though some people notice itching, mild irritation or occasional bleeding.
They can develop weeks or even months after contact with the virus, so it is not always possible to know when or from whom they were acquired. Warts may appear on the penis, scrotum, vulva, inside the vagina, around or inside the anus, and sometimes in the groin. If you notice any new growths, a clinician can confirm what they are.
Getting a diagnosis
Genital warts are usually diagnosed simply by a clinician looking at them, as their appearance is often distinctive. Occasionally a closer examination is needed to check warts that are internal or less typical.
A discreet consultation is worthwhile because some other skin changes can look similar, and a professional can confirm the diagnosis and rule out anything that needs different care. Once confirmed, you can discuss which treatment fits your situation best.
Treatments you apply at home
Several effective treatments can be applied at home under a clinician's guidance, which many people prefer for privacy and convenience. Warticon Cream, which contains podophyllotoxin, is applied directly to the warts in short cycles, typically twice a day for three days followed by a break, repeated over several weeks. It works by breaking down the wart tissue and suits soft, external warts.
Another option is Aldara 5%, a cream containing imiquimod, which works differently by prompting the local immune response to recognise and clear the warts. It is applied a few times a week, usually at night and washed off in the morning, often over a longer period of up to several months. Because it works with the immune system, it can cause some redness or irritation as the warts respond, which is a normal part of how it acts.
A clinician will explain exactly how and where to apply whichever treatment is chosen, as these are used carefully to protect the surrounding healthy skin. Neither is used during pregnancy, so it is important to mention if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive so that a suitable alternative can be arranged.
Treatments carried out in a clinic
Some warts respond better to procedures done by a professional. Cryotherapy, which freezes the warts with liquid nitrogen, is a common and effective choice and may be repeated over a few sessions. Other options include applying a specialist solution, or removing warts using heat, laser or minor surgery.
Clinic treatments are often preferred for warts that are larger, internal, numerous, or that have not responded to creams. A clinician will recommend the most suitable method based on the size, number and location of your warts, and how your skin responds.
What to expect from treatment
Treatment removes the visible warts but does not always remove the underlying virus straight away, so warts can sometimes return and need a further course. This is normal and does not mean the treatment failed. Many people clear the virus naturally over time as their immune system responds.
Being patient is important, as most treatments take several weeks to work. Avoiding sex while warts are present, or during treatment as advised, reduces the chance of passing them on and helps the skin heal. A follow-up review lets a clinician check progress and adjust the approach if needed.
Preventing genital warts
The HPV vaccine offered to young people in the UK protects against the main wart-causing types as well as the high-risk types linked to cancer, and is the most effective way to prevent genital warts. The vaccine is given in schools to both girls and boys, and is also available to some other groups; a clinician can advise whether it may be relevant to you. Using condoms reduces the risk of passing warts on, though it does not remove it entirely because they can affect skin that a condom does not cover.
Not smoking and keeping your general health strong may help your body clear the virus more readily, as smoking is associated with warts being more persistent. Regular sexual health check-ups remain a sensible habit, particularly with a new partner, and allow any changes to be looked at early.
If you notice new growths or have questions about treatment or prevention, a clinician can talk things through discreetly and recommend the best combination of steps for you. Genital warts are common and very manageable, and there is always support available without judgement.
Frequently asked questions
Are genital warts dangerous?
No. They are caused by low-risk HPV types and do not turn into cancer, though many people choose treatment for comfort and reassurance.
Can genital warts come back after treatment?
Yes, they can recur because treatment clears the visible warts but not always the underlying virus. A repeat course may be needed, and many people clear the virus over time.
How long does treatment take to work?
Most home treatments are used over several weeks, and clinic procedures may need a few sessions. A clinician will guide you on timing and check your progress.
Should I avoid sex during treatment?
It is best to avoid sexual contact while warts are present or as your clinician advises, both to help healing and to reduce the risk of passing them on.
Does the HPV vaccine help?
Yes. The vaccine protects against the HPV types that cause most genital warts and is the most effective way to prevent them.