Genital warts are small skin-colored growths caused by low-risk types of HPV, most often types 6 and 11. They are not dangerous and are not cancer, but they can be removed with cryotherapy, laser, electrocautery, minor excision or prescription creams. Treatment removes visible warts; the virus may remain, so warts can come back.
- Cause
- Low-risk HPV (mostly 6 and 11)
- Diagnosis
- Usually by examination
- Anesthesia
- None or local numbing
- Sessions
- Often more than one
- Recovery
- Mild soreness for days
- Prevention
- HPV vaccine, condoms
What are genital warts?
Genital warts(condyloma acuminata) are soft, skin-colored, pink or brown bumps on the vulva, around the vaginal opening, the anus, or occasionally inside the vagina or on the cervix. They may be single or in clusters and often cause no discomfort, though some cause itching or irritation.
They are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), spread through skin-to-skin genital contact. Warts can appear weeks to months after contact, so it is often impossible to know when or from whom the infection came. The HPV types that cause warts are different from the high-risk types linked to cervical cancer.
How genital warts are diagnosed
Most warts are diagnosed by a careful look during a private examination. A biopsy may be suggested if a lesion looks unusual, bleeds, does not respond to treatment, or appears after menopause — some other skin conditions can look similar. See also vulvar lumps and lesions.
Because warts are a sign of HPV exposure, your doctor may recommend a Pap smear if you are due, and offer a confidential STD test if you have had a new partner.
Treatment options compared
| Option | How it works | Good for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cryotherapy | Freezes the wart with liquid nitrogen | Small, few warts | Often repeated every 1–2 weeks; brief stinging |
| Laser (CO2) | Vaporizes wart tissue precisely | Multiple or larger warts | Local anesthesia; a few days of soreness |
| Electrocautery | Removes warts with a heated tip | Raised, larger warts | Local anesthesia; small wounds heal in 1–2 weeks |
| Surgical excision | Cuts the wart away, may be sent for pathology | Large or unusual lesions | Local anesthesia; may need a stitch |
| Prescription creams | Applied at home over weeks | Small external warts | Can irritate skin; some are not used in pregnancy |
No single method is right for everyone. The choice depends on the number, size and location of warts, whether you are pregnant, and your preference.
- Small bumps on the vulva or around the anus
- Itching or irritation
- Uncertainty about what the growths are
- Worry about passing them on
- A clear diagnosis after a private examination
- Visible warts removed, often over a few sessions
- A plan for checking for recurrence
- Advice on HPV vaccination and screening
What happens at your visit
- Private consultation You describe what you have noticed in English. Questions are asked respectfully and kept confidential.
- Examination The vulva and perianal area are examined; a speculum exam checks the vagina and cervix if needed.
- Choosing a treatment Options, number of sessions and expected discomfort are explained so you can decide.
- Treatment Small warts can often be treated the same day. Local numbing is used for laser, cautery or excision.
- Aftercare and review You receive written aftercare instructions; a review visit checks healing and treats any new warts early.
Recovery and recurrence
- First 2–3 days Mild burning, soreness or small blisters are common. Keep the area clean and dry; rinse after using the toilet.
- 1–2 weeks Treated spots heal. Avoid sex until the skin has healed.
- Following months New warts can appear because HPV may remain in the skin. Early review makes retreatment quicker.
Many people's immune systems clear the virus over time, and recurrences often become less frequent. Smoking is linked to more persistent warts.
Partners, pregnancy and prevention
- Partners — current partners may also have HPV even without visible warts; they can see a doctor if they notice changes.
- Condoms — lower but do not fully prevent transmission, as HPV can affect skin not covered.
- HPV vaccine — Gardasil 9 protects against types 6 and 11 as well as high-risk types; it does not treat existing warts but can protect against other types. See HPV vaccine in Seoul.
- Pregnancy — warts can grow during pregnancy; treatment options are chosen carefully, and some creams are avoided.
Costs depend on the method and number of sessions; a written estimate is given after consultation, and English receipts are available for insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Are genital warts dangerous?
Genital warts are caused by low-risk HPV types and are not cancer. They can be uncomfortable or distressing, which is why many people choose removal. Your doctor may still recommend regular cervical screening.
Will the warts come back after removal?
They can. Treatment removes visible warts, but the virus may stay in nearby skin for a while. Recurrences are most common in the first few months and usually become less frequent over time.
Should I get the HPV vaccine if I already have warts?
It may still help, because Gardasil 9 protects against several HPV types you may not have been exposed to. In Korea, people aged 15 and over usually receive 3 doses over 6 months.
Is my visit confidential?
Yes. Consultations are private, and records are not shared without your consent. You can request English documents if you need them for insurance.
Can I have treatment while pregnant?
Some treatments, such as cryotherapy or minor removal, can be used in pregnancy, while some creams are avoided. Your doctor will discuss safe options with you.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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