Treatment for Warts: Managing Bleeding and Medication Use

Second day of applying medication for cauliflower?

Hello, doctor.
A few days ago, I visited a large hospital due to an old condition of hemorrhoids.
After the examination, the doctor found that I not only have hemorrhoids but also genital warts.
Due to the current pandemic, the doctor explained that the primary treatment for genital warts is electrosurgery, but medical resources need to be reserved for severe cases, so a surgical date could not be arranged.
I asked if there are any oral or topical medications available, and the doctor briefly reminded me to check for any unexplained growths in the vaginal area.
He prescribed "Kedou Ning" ointment, and I understand how to apply the medication and its effects.
I learned that genital warts may fall off due to the medication's action.
However, today, on the second day of use, when I applied the ointment with a cotton swab, I noticed that some tissue had indeed fallen off, but it was accompanied by bleeding.
I am unsure if this situation is considered common, as I read online that "you should try to avoid bleeding from genital warts, as it can lead to increased infection." Therefore, I would like to inquire about this.
My approach was to discard the cotton swab that had blood on it and use a new cotton swab to apply the ointment to the affected area.
I am not sure if this is the correct way to handle it.

Wèn wèn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/06

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Wart tissue (medically known as condyloma acuminatum) may fall off after topical medication, resulting in wounds similar to abrasions.
This can lead to minor bleeding, which can be monitored.
A small amount of bleeding is not unusual and is not related to the spread of the warts.

Reply Date: 2021/06/06

More Info

When it comes to managing warts, particularly those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), it is essential to understand both the treatment options available and the potential complications that may arise during the treatment process. In your case, it seems you are dealing with genital warts, commonly referred to as "cauliflower" due to their appearance. The treatment for these warts can vary, but it generally includes topical medications, cryotherapy, laser treatment, or surgical removal.

The medication you mentioned, "克疣寧" (likely referring to a topical treatment for warts), is designed to help eliminate the warts by promoting the shedding of the affected skin cells. It is not uncommon for warts to bleed during treatment, especially if the wart is being actively treated or if it is being irritated. However, bleeding can also indicate that the wart is being damaged, which could lead to infection if not managed properly.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Bleeding During Treatment: It is not unusual for warts to bleed slightly when treated with topical agents, especially if the wart is being effectively targeted. However, excessive bleeding or bleeding that does not stop may require medical attention. If you notice that the bleeding is significant or persistent, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

2. Infection Risk: As you noted, bleeding can increase the risk of infection. It is crucial to keep the area clean and avoid touching it with unwashed hands. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus, you should seek medical advice promptly.

3. Application Technique: Using a clean cotton swab to apply the medication is a good practice, especially if you are concerned about contamination. Always ensure that the area is clean before applying any topical treatment. If you notice that the cotton swab has blood on it, it is wise to discard it and use a new one to prevent introducing bacteria into the area.

4. Follow-Up Care: Since you are experiencing some bleeding, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They can assess the area to ensure that the treatment is proceeding as expected and that there are no complications such as infection or excessive irritation.

5. Alternative Treatments: If topical treatments are not effective or if you continue to experience complications, your doctor may discuss other treatment options with you, such as cryotherapy (freezing the warts), laser therapy, or surgical removal. These methods can be more effective for larger or more persistent warts.

6. Self-Examination: As your doctor advised, it is important to monitor for any new growths or changes in the genital area. If you notice any unusual lumps or bumps, it is essential to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional.

In summary, while some bleeding during wart treatment can be normal, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. Maintain good hygiene, use clean application methods, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about bleeding or signs of infection. Your health and safety should always come first, and your doctor can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Managing Genital Warts: Treatment Options and Side Effects Explained

Hello Dr. Wu, Last May, I was diagnosed with genital warts at the dermatology clinic. I underwent cryotherapy for about four to five months, but new lesions continue to appear. Based on the physician's recommendation, I started using a topical treatment, specifically pheno...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
1. You should consult your attending physician about this issue, as they are most familiar with your condition. 2. The mechanisms of action are different, but they all belong to the category of treatments for warts. If one treatment is not effective, you may consider switching ...

Understanding Viral Warts on Hands: Treatment Options and Misconceptions

Dear Doctor, I have a viral wart on my hand that has been treated with cryotherapy 10 times, but it hasn't improved. I switched to a different department, and the doctor prescribed me antiparasitic medication and a topical treatment for common herpes. Are these treatments ef...

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: I'm not sure what the exact names of the deworming medication and the ointment for common herpes are. In the treatment of viral warts, topical medications containing retinoids are sometimes used, and retinoids are also commonly used to treat acne. For information on t...

Effective Wart Creams: Which Brands Work Best for HPV Treatment?

Hello, Pharmacist Liao. I am fortunate to hear your professional explanation here. Recently, I consulted Dr. Chen Wei-Bao in Taipei regarding HPV symptoms, and he confirmed that surgery is not necessary and recommended using topical ointments instead. There are many types of wart...

Dr. Liao Lingmei reply Pharmacology
Dear: From a pharmacist's perspective on wart treatment medications, the first consideration is the location of the warts, as different areas may require different effective medications. For common skin warts, aside from medical treatments like cryotherapy with liquid nitrog...

Understanding Doctor's Approach to Diagnosing and Treating Warts

Hello, Doctor! On June 29th, I noticed a white, fleshy growth near the urethral opening of my glans while showering, so I have a few questions to ask you. First, on July 1st, I went to the hospital to see a doctor. After looking at it for less than 10 seconds, the doctor said it ...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
CK: Hello. 1. Warts can be diagnosed visually. That's correct. Treatment options include topical medications or electrosurgery. 2. You can seek a second opinion from another physician. 3. It is safer to follow the instructions provided in the medication guide. 4. Warts are g...