Genital warts can feel difficult to discuss, and many people are hesitant to bring up unusual growths in private areas. Our dermatologists will identify what these growths are and guide you through treatment options.
Genital warts, also called condylomata acuminata, are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
They can appear as single growths or in clusters of various shapes and sizes. Some warts resemble small skin-colored bumps, while others look like cauliflower-like clusters. Growths may be flat, raised, smooth, or rough.
Although some people have no symptoms, genital warts can itch, hurt, bleed, or burn.
In women, they may appear on the vulva, vagina, cervix, or groin. In men, they can affect the penis, scrotum, thigh, or groin. Warts can also appear around the anus after anal contact or in the throat and mouth after oral sex. Because HPV is so common, many people may carry the virus and spread it without visible signs of infection.
Dermatologists diagnose genital warts through a physical examination. In some cases, a biopsy (removing a piece of the wart for lab testing) may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. While some genital warts clear on their own, treatment has important benefits — reducing the risk of HPV transmission, easing discomfort, and ruling out cancerous changes. Over-the-counter wart remedies are not effective and should be avoided.
Treatment options include:
- Medicines applied at home, such as Podofilox (stops wart cell growth), Imiquimod (stimulates the immune system), or green tea extract ointment.
- In-office procedures, including cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen), excision (surgical removal), electrocautery (burning with electric current), or laser therapy.
- Other options, such as antiviral injections (e.g., interferon) when other treatments fail.
Multiple visits may be needed, and even after removal, HPV can remain in the body, meaning warts may return and the virus can still spread. Condoms reduce—but do not eliminate—the risk of transmission.
We begin with an in-depth evaluation to confirm whether your growths are genital warts and to rule out other conditions. From there, we create a personalized treatment plan based on the number of warts, their location, and your overall health.
Our treatments include prescription medications you can apply at home, as well as in-office procedures such as cryotherapy, excision, electrocautery, or laser therapy. For resistant cases, we may also recommend advanced options like antiviral injections. Because genital warts can be persistent, we provide ongoing support to manage recurrences and reduce your risk of spreading HPV.
What causes genital warts?
Genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as close genital contact. In rare cases, a mother can pass HPV to her baby during childbirth.
What do genital warts look and feel like?
They may appear as small, skin-colored bumps, flat or raised growths, or cauliflower-like clusters. While some people have no symptoms, warts can sometimes itch, burn, bleed, or feel painful.
Where can genital warts appear?
In women, they may develop on the vulva, vagina, cervix, or groin. In men, they can occur on the penis, scrotum, thigh, or groin. Warts can also appear around the anus or in the mouth and throat after sexual contact.
How are genital warts diagnosed?
A dermatologist typically makes the diagnosis through a physical exam. In some cases, a biopsy may be done by removing a small sample of the wart for testing to confirm HPV or rule out cancer.
Do genital warts always need treatment?
Some warts may go away on their own, but treatment offers important benefits: reducing the risk of spreading HPV, relieving discomfort, improving hygiene, and ruling out cancerous changes.
What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on the number, size, and location of the warts. Options include:
-Medicine
More times than not, a dermatologist will prescribe a medicine that you will then apply to your genital warts at home. These medicines include:
-Procedures
The procedures can be performed by a dermatologist during an office visit.
Sometimes it will take more than one visit to the dermatologist before all warts are gone. If you are looking for genital warts removal NYC, seek a genital dermatologist.
-Other Treatments
Medicine may be injected into the genital warts, and this option is usually used when all else fails. An antiviral medication called Interferon may be injected into the genital warts.
Can genital warts come back?
Yes. Even after visible warts are removed, HPV can remain in the body. Warts may recur, and the virus can still be spread to sexual partners.
How can genital warts be prevented?
Prevention includes getting the HPV vaccine, practicing safe sex with condoms (though they don’t provide full protection), limiting sexual partners, and not smoking, since smoking raises the risk of developing warts.
We will review your symptoms, medical history, and triggers, followed by a skin exam to confirm your diagnosis.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care. Instead, we’ll create a personalized plan for your needs, goals, and lifestyle.
We’ll monitor your progress, adjust treatments as needed, and guide you in preventing flare-ups for long-term skin health.
"Dr. Alvarez is a conscientious and compassionate physician. My family and I have been seeing him for 8+ years and I’ve referred him to family and friends alike.
Everyone is always pleased with the referral and the care they receive."
- V.R.
"Dr. Alvarez is incredible - by far my favorite doctor. He has helped me with a multitude of issues - advocating to my insurance for necessary care and offering me options for everything.
He and his team are dedicated to giving excellent, welcoming, quality care - and they have great views from their office."
- B.G
"Dr. Karp is truly amazing! When I walked in, I felt welcomed and at ease. She's knowledgeable and explained everything clearly. I felt comfortable and confident in her care.
I actually came to see her when my regular dermatologist couldn't get me in, but honestly, I won't be going back. Her exceptional care and welcoming demeanor have won me over completely. "
- K.P
