Penile Warts: Concerns and Treatment Options - Urology

More Info

---

Penile warts, also known as genital warts, are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts can appear as small, flesh-colored bumps or growths on the genital area, including the penis, scrotum, and surrounding skin. It's understandable to feel concerned when you notice changes in your genital area, especially when it comes to growths that seem to multiply.

From your description, it seems that you have been diagnosed with early-stage genital warts, which can indeed resemble small bumps or lesions. The fact that you have noticed an increase in the number of these bumps over the past week is not uncommon, as genital warts can proliferate if left untreated. The treatment you have been prescribed, a topical medication called Podofilox (often referred to by its brand name, Condylox), is commonly used to treat genital warts. It works by destroying the wart tissue and is generally effective for many patients.

However, it's important to note that while some individuals may see improvement within a week or two, others may take longer to respond to treatment. The growth of additional warts during the first week of treatment can happen, especially if the warts were already present but not yet visible. The medication may take time to work, and it’s crucial to apply it as directed by your healthcare provider.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Treatment Duration: It’s typical for topical treatments to take several weeks to show significant improvement. If you have been using the medication for only one week, it may be too early to assess its effectiveness fully. Continue using the medication as prescribed, and monitor the warts for any changes.

2. Follow-Up: If you do not see any improvement after a few weeks of treatment, or if the warts continue to multiply, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider alternative treatments, such as cryotherapy (freezing the warts), laser therapy, or surgical removal, depending on the severity and extent of the warts.

3. HPV and Recurrence: HPV is a virus that can remain dormant in the body, and even after treatment, there is a possibility of recurrence. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor for any new growths or changes.

4. Safe Practices: Since HPV is sexually transmitted, it is advisable to practice safe sex to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to partners. Using condoms can lower the risk, but they do not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom.

5. Vaccination: If you haven’t already, consider discussing the HPV vaccine with your healthcare provider. The vaccine can protect against the most common strains of HPV that cause genital warts and certain types of cancer.

6. Emotional Support: Dealing with genital warts can be emotionally challenging. It’s important to seek support from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals if you feel anxious or stressed about your condition.

In summary, while it can be concerning to see new growths, it’s important to give the treatment time to work and to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance.