What should a woman do about genital warts?

Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
Updated on June 30, 2025
00:00
00:00

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus and commonly occur in areas such as the anus and external genitalia, primarily transmitted through sexual activity. Genital warts are prevalent among sexually active young and middle-aged individuals, with an incubation period ranging from one to eight months, averaging three months.

In women, genital warts often occur on the labia majora, labia minora, vaginal introitus, clitoris, vagina, cervix, perineum, and around the anus. In a minority of patients, lesions may appear in areas other than the anogenital region, such as the oral cavity, armpits, breasts, and interdigital spaces. The initial lesions are single or multiple pale red papules that are soft in texture and gradually enlarge and multiply, forming wart-like structures, which may develop into papilliform, cauliflower-like, or cock's comb-like appearances.

Treatment primarily involves the local removal of the warts, supplemented by antiviral and immune-boosting medications. Local treatments such as laser, cryotherapy, electrocautery, and microwave therapy can be used. For larger warts, surgical removal may be considered. For smaller warts located at the urethral meatus, photodynamic therapy can be an option.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
53sec home-news-image

The best treatment method for genital warts

Genital warts are caused by an infection with the papillomavirus, also known as HPV virus. This disease is highly contagious and recurrent, mostly transmitted through direct sexual contact. Some individuals may contract it from using contaminated towels while bathing, soaking, or visiting public baths. The most common treatment for this condition involves using lasers to remove the warts, followed by medication. Currently, the best method is using photodynamic therapy with Ailargo, which can reduce the recurrence but tends to be more expensive. It is recommended to consult the dermatology department of a local formal hospital before treatment. During treatment, it is crucial to maintain a standardized diet and lifestyle, avoid sexual contact and spicy or irritating foods, and enhance physical exercise to improve immunity.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
1min 15sec home-news-image

Will pseudosharp be itchy?

Pseudovestibular papillomatosis mostly does not cause itching, but it is possible for some individuals to experience itching symptoms, which depend on each person’s specific circumstances. Typically, pseudovestibular papillomatosis appears as clusters of smooth, white or pale red bumps the size of fish eggs. They are usually found on the inner sides of the female labia minora and the vestibule of the vagina, and do not produce noticeable symptoms. The acetic acid white test is also negative. Because pseudovestibular papillomatosis is related to the irritation from female genital secretions, severe vaginal inflammation can potentially cause itching due to local irritation. In such cases, it is important to improve immunity, exercise regularly, change sanitary pads frequently, bathe often, and actively manage vaginal inflammation to alleviate symptoms. Some individuals mistakenly treat pseudovestibular papillomatosis as actual genital warts after visiting unregulated facilities, which is unnecessary.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
56sec home-news-image

What is genital warts like?

Genital warts belong to a contagious sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papillomavirus infection, commonly known as HPV. This disease generally has a high incidence among sexually active populations. Once infected, it tends to be highly recurrent and contagious. The most characteristic symptoms are cauliflower-like or cock's comb-like growths. Initially, there are sharp-pointed white papules that gradually may grow into lumps. Typically, these growths are found on the external genitalia, foreskin, glans, or anal region. Treatment for this condition can be challenging. Once diagnosed, it is essential to seek standard treatment from a dermatology department in a reputable hospital. Treatment must be persistent, potentially lasting at least six months to a year. It is advisable to avoid sexual contact until completely healed.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
47sec home-news-image

What medicine is used for genital warts?

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection, and this disease is highly contagious and recurrent, classified as a sexually transmitted disease. Although some over-the-counter topical medications available on the market are somewhat effective, they can also be quite corrosive. Improper use may lead to local corrosion or ulceration, so it is advised to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a recognized hospital. The most common treatment involves removing the warts with laser or cryotherapy, followed by the use of oral and topical antiviral medications. During treatment, it is crucial to avoid sexual contact. After recovery, it is important to maintain proper diet and lifestyle habits, avoid public baths and swimming, and abstain from sexual activity.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
44sec home-news-image

What medicine can cure genital warts?

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted disease that can cause significant harm to both the physical and mental health of patients. The treatment of genital warts mainly involves topical medications and physical therapy, with oral medications used as supplemental treatments. For topical medications, choices include imiquimod cream or interferon gel, while oral medications may include immune-boosting drugs such as transfer factor oral liquid. Finally, physical therapies such as cryotherapy or laser treatment can be used to remove the warts. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)