Genital warts are caused by low-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), most commonly HPV types 6 and 11. These strains do not cause cancer, but they are highly infectious and can spread easily through close sexual contact.

Although genital warts are usually harmless from a medical perspective, they can be distressing, uncomfortable, and cosmetically concerning. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help reduce spread and improve confidence.

What Causes Genital Warts?

Genital warts are caused by low-risk HPV strains, primarily:

• HPV 6

• HPV 11

These strains are responsible for the majority of visible genital wart infections.

Transmission occurs through:

• Genital-to-genital contact

• Vaginal or anal intercourse

• Oral-genital contact

Because HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact rather than bodily fluids, condoms reduce but do not eliminate transmission risk.

Genital warts are highly infectious, particularly when visible lesions are present.

Are Genital Warts Serious?

Genital warts:

• Are unsightly and infectious

• Rarely cause serious health problems

• Are not linked to cancer

However, they can:

• Multiply if untreated

• Spread to partners

• Causes psychological distress

• Occasionally cause irritation or discomfort

Prompt treatment improves cosmetic appearance and reduces viral spread.

Symptoms of Genital Warts

Genital warts often appear weeks to months after exposure.

Typical features include:

• Painless, flesh-coloured growths

• Single lesions or clusters

• Flat or raised bumps

• Small cauliflower-like formations

They may appear on:

• Penis

• Vulva

• Vaginal walls

• Perineum

• Anus

• Groin

• Thighs

Some patients also experience:

• Itching

• Mild irritation

• Local discomfort

Many people have no other symptoms.

Diagnosis

Genital warts are usually diagnosed by visual inspection during a clinical examination.

Because they have a characteristic appearance, further testing is often unnecessary.

However, if there is uncertainty, we can:

• Perform HPV swab testing

• Assess for co-existing sexually transmitted infections

• Conduct additional screening if clinically indicated

Assessment may involve:

• External genital examination

• Speculum examination (in women)

• Proctoscopy (if anal involvement is suspected)

Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment.

Treatment of Genital Warts

Most treatments remove the wart but do not necessarily eradicate the HPV virus itself. The immune system is ultimately responsible for clearing the infection over time.

Treatment options include:

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

Cryotherapy is my preferred method of treatment.

This involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart tissue. It is:

• Quick

• Effective

• Performed in clinic

• Suitable for most wart types

Multiple sessions are usually required.

I recommend leaving no longer than two weeks between treatments for best results.

Some temporary redness, blistering, or irritation is expected after treatment.

There is a small risk of scarring, particularly with repeated treatments.

Topical Acid Treatments

Certain acid-based treatments can be applied directly to the wart.

These treatments:

• Destroy wart tissue gradually

• May require repeated application

• Can sometimes be self-applied at home under guidance

These are often suitable for smaller lesions.

Immune-Modulating Cream

An immune-modulating topical cream can stimulate the body’s immune response against HPV.

This option:

• Is applied at home

• May take several weeks

• Can cause local skin irritation

It may be appropriate for patients with multiple or recurrent lesions.

Choosing the Right Treatment

During your first consultation, we will:

• Assess the size and number of lesions

• Consider location

• Review previous treatments

• Discuss side effects

• Explore your preferences

There is no single “best” treatment for every patient. Decisions are individualised.

Do Genital Warts Come Back?

Yes, recurrence is possible.

Because treatment removes visible lesions rather than the underlying virus, warts may reappear while the immune system is still clearing HPV.

Recurrence is more common in the first few months after treatment.

The majority of people eventually clear the virus naturally within 1–2 years.

Reducing Transmission

While warts are present, the transmission risk is higher.

To reduce spread:

• Avoid sexual contact while lesions are active

• Use barrier protection

• Inform sexual partners

• Complete treatment course

HPV vaccination also significantly reduces the risk of acquiring strains that cause genital warts.

HPV Vaccination and Genital Warts

Modern HPV vaccines protect against:

• HPV 6 and 11 (wart-causing strains)

• HPV 16 and 18 (cancer-associated strains)

Vaccination is recommended for sexually active adults who have not yet been immunised.

Even after a wart diagnosis, vaccination may help protect against other HPV strains.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

You should arrange an appointment if you notice:

• New flesh-coloured growths

• Clusters of small bumps in the genital area

• Anal or perineal lesions

• Persistent itching or irritation

Early treatment prevents the spread and reduces anxiety.

Confidential Genital Wart Treatment in Canary Wharf

At our private clinic in Canary Wharf, we provide:

• Rapid diagnosis

• Cryotherapy treatment

• Home treatment guidance

• HPV vaccination

• Comprehensive STI screening

• Follow-up appointments

Our care is discreet, professional, and non-judgmental.

Protecting Your Sexual Health

Genital warts are common and treatable. Although rarely medically serious, they can cause understandable concern.

Prompt assessment, appropriate treatment, and vaccination help reduce recurrence and protect long-term sexual health.

If you are concerned about possible genital warts, confidential appointments are available.