Genital warts HPV — symptoms, treatment, talk to a doctor online

What is genital warts?

Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) — specifically types 6 and 11 in most cases. About 1 in 100 sexually active adults has visible warts at any given time.

Multiple treatments exist. Many cases resolve spontaneously. HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) prevents the strains causing warts and most cancers.

Do I have genital warts? Common signs

If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:

Skin-colored or pinkish bumps in genital, anal area Cauliflower-like clusters Sometimes flat patches Usually painless but can itch May bleed if irritated Can affect throat (rare, from oral sex) Often noted by partner Sometimes hidden internally

Here's how it actually works

Tell us what's going on5-minute online intake covers your symptoms, history, and any photos.

A clinician reviewsLicensed in your state. Reviews your case and asks anything needed.

Rx to your pharmacyIf treatment is appropriate, the prescription goes to the pharmacy you choose.

What causes it

HPV types 6 and 11 — sexually transmitted. Most sexually active adults have HPV at some point; only some develop visible warts.

Is it contagious?

Yes. Direct skin-to-skin contact. Vertical transmission to babies during delivery possible.

HPV is extremely common — most sexually active adults are exposed. The vaccine before exposure prevents most cancers and warts.

Can it be treated online?

Genital warts are well-suited to telehealth — photos confirm. Atypical lesions, suspicion of dysplasia, anal involvement, pregnancy, immunocompromised patients benefit from in-person care including possible biopsy.

How genital warts is treated

Patient-applied topicals: imiquimod 5% cream (Aldara) — applied at bedtime 3x weekly for up to 16 weeks. Podofilox 0.5% twice daily 3 days on, 4 off. Sinecatechins 15% (Veregen). Provider-applied: cryotherapy, TCA, electrocautery, surgical removal. HPV vaccine for prevention.

Self-care while you wait

Don't scratch or pick
Use condoms — reduces but doesn't eliminate transmission
Notify sexual partners
HPV vaccination if eligible
Avoid sex during active treatment
Regular cervical screening for women
Pregnant women need extra evaluation
Don't share towels with affected area

When to skip telehealth and seek emergency care Rapidly growing lesions, bleeding, suspicion of malignancy, urinary or bowel obstruction — need in-person evaluation.

How long does it last?

Variable. Treatment takes weeks to months. Recurrence common (20–30%). Many cases resolve spontaneously without treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Will my partner get it?

Likely already exposed if you've been sexually active. Condoms reduce but don't eliminate transmission.

Will it cause cancer?

Wart-causing types (6, 11) are LOW cancer risk. Cancer-causing types (16, 18 etc.) usually don't cause warts. Cervical screening detects pre-cancer.

Should I get the vaccine if I already have HPV?

Yes — protects against other strains you haven't been exposed to. FDA-approved through age 45.

Can I treat them at home?

Yes — patient-applied creams (imiquimod, podofilox) work for many cases. Provider-applied treatments for stubborn cases.

Are they curable?

HPV virus may persist even after warts clear. Recurrence is common. Most people clear HPV from their system within 2 years.

This page is for general information only — not a substitute for individual medical advice. A licensed clinician reviews every intake submitted through PrescriberNow before any prescription is issued. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Genital warts
(HPV)