Managing Recurring Genital Warts: Treatment Options and Advice

Genital warts

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing this issue.
You mentioned that you previously had genital warts that were treated with electrocautery, but they have reappeared recently.
You've been using a topical treatment for warts for two days, but you haven't noticed much change and they may have slightly increased in size.

It's important to continue monitoring the situation.
If the topical treatment does not seem to be effective after a reasonable period, or if the warts continue to grow or cause discomfort, I recommend consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation and potential alternative treatments.

A Bu Bu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/11

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello, since the medication has not improved your condition, please return to the urology department for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/08/11

More Info

Managing recurring genital warts can be a challenging experience, especially after previous treatments. Genital warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), can recur even after successful treatment. Here’s a comprehensive overview of treatment options and advice for managing your condition.

Treatment Options
1. Topical Treatments:
- Imiquimod (Aldara): This is an immune response modifier that helps your body fight the HPV virus. It is applied directly to the warts and can take several weeks to see results.

- Podofilox (Condylox): This is a topical solution that can be applied directly to the warts. It works by destroying the wart tissue and is typically used twice a day for three days, followed by four days of no treatment.

- Sinecatechins (Veregen): This is a green tea extract ointment that can be applied to the warts. It is also used for external genital warts and may take several weeks to show improvement.

2. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen. It is a common and effective treatment, but multiple sessions may be required.

3. Electrosurgery: This method uses electrical currents to burn off the warts. It is effective but may require local anesthesia.

4. Laser Treatment: For larger or more persistent warts, laser therapy may be an option. This is usually reserved for cases that do not respond to other treatments.

5. Surgical Removal: In some cases, warts can be surgically excised. This is typically done under local anesthesia and is effective for larger warts.

Recommendations for Your Situation
Since you have already started using a topical treatment (the wart removal gel), it is essential to give it some time to work. Many topical treatments can take several weeks to show significant results. Here are some steps you can take:
- Continue Using the Treatment: If you have only been using the wart removal gel for two days, it is advisable to continue using it as directed. Monitor the warts for any changes in size or appearance over the next few weeks.

- Observe for Side Effects: While using the topical treatment, watch for any adverse reactions such as excessive redness, irritation, or pain. If you experience severe side effects, consult your healthcare provider.

- Follow Up with a Healthcare Provider: If the warts do not improve after a few weeks of treatment, or if they continue to grow, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess the situation and may recommend alternative treatments or a combination of therapies.

- Consider HPV Vaccination: If you have not been vaccinated against HPV, consider discussing the HPV vaccine with your healthcare provider. The vaccine can help protect against the strains of HPV that cause genital warts and certain types of cancer.

- Practice Safe Sex: To prevent the spread of HPV and reduce the risk of recurrence, practice safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners.

Conclusion
Managing recurring genital warts requires patience and adherence to treatment. While topical treatments can be effective, they may take time to show results. If you notice no improvement or worsening of your condition, seek medical advice for further evaluation and treatment options. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many effective treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms.

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