- Warts are HPV 6/11 — not a cancer risk.
- Cryotherapy or excision works fastest for stubborn lesions.
- Vaccination reduces recurrence.
Why warts appear
Genital warts are caused almost exclusively by low-risk HPV types 6 and 11. They are not linked to cervical cancer but can be persistent and psychologically distressing.
Treatment options compared
Topical: imiquimod cream or podophyllotoxin — self-applied, works in 60–70% of cases over 4–16 weeks. Cryotherapy: liquid nitrogen in clinic — three to six sessions, quick. Electrosurgery or laser excision: definitive removal of resistant or extensive lesions under local anaesthetic.
Recurrence is common in the first 3–6 months regardless of method — because the underlying HPV takes time to clear. The 9-valent vaccine reduces recurrence.
Frequently asked questions
Are warts contagious to my partner?
Yes, especially during active outbreaks — condoms reduce but do not eliminate transmission.
Do internal (vaginal or cervical) warts need treatment?
Yes — a colposcopy is used to map them and decide the best approach.
Will they come back?
Around 20–30% recur within 6 months; vaccination and immune health reduce this.
Could a doctor-led plan help you?
A 30-minute video consultation with Dr Berra Önsoy — reviewing your test results and giving you a clear, personalised next step.
Request a video consultation