Online genital wart treatment

Dr. Nori explains that the duration of genital warts can vary significantly. Without treatment, some warts resolve spontaneously within months as the immune system controls the infection, while others may persist for years. With treatment, individual warts can often be cleared within a few weeks, but multiple treatment sessions are sometimes required. She adds that even when warts disappear, the underlying virus may remain dormant, meaning new lesions can develop in the future.

According to Dr. Nori, genital warts themselves are benign. However, their presence indicates an HPV infection, and while types 6 and 11 are considered “low-risk” for malignancy, it is possible for a person to be co-infected with high-risk HPV types that are associated with cervical, anal, penile, or throat cancers. For this reason, she stresses the importance of regular Pap smears, HPV testing, and appropriate screening based on a patient’s anatomy and risk factors.

Dr. Nori explains that in some cases, prescriptions for topical treatments such as imiquimod, podofilox, or sinecatechins can be provided through an online consultation if the dermatologist is confident in the diagnosis based on photos and history. However, she emphasizes that in some cases, you may be referred to an in-person dermatologist.

Dr. Nori confirms that HPV strains causing genital warts can be transmitted through oral-genital contact, although this is less common than genital-to-genital transmission. In such cases, warts can develop in the mouth, throat, or lips, and HPV can also cause oral infections without visible lesions. She advises that barrier methods like condoms or dental dams during oral sex can reduce the risk of transmission.

Dr. Nori explains that the appearance of genital warts depends on a combination of viral activity and the body’s immune response. Even after HPV infection, warts may not appear for weeks, months, or even years. Outbreaks are more likely when the immune system is weakened—due to stress, illness, poor nutrition, smoking, or immunosuppressive medications. She notes that some people never develop warts despite carrying the virus, while others may experience multiple recurrences.

Dr. Nori emphasizes that HPV vaccination is the single most effective preventive measure, protecting against both low-risk types that cause warts and high-risk types linked to cancers. Vaccination is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity but can still offer benefits later. In addition, consistent condom use, limiting the number of sexual partners, and avoiding sexual contact with anyone who has visible lesions further reduce the risk of transmission.

According to Dr. Nori, the likelihood of developing genital warts increases with behaviors or conditions that facilitate HPV exposure or weaken immune defenses. Risk factors include unprotected sex, having multiple partners, a history of other sexually transmitted infections, and smoking. Immunosuppression from conditions such as HIV or medications like steroids also increases susceptibility.

Dr. Nori explains that patient-applied topical medications, such as imiquimod or podofilox, are used over several weeks to stimulate the immune system or destroy wart tissue. She adds that follow-up is essential, as multiple treatments are often needed to fully clear the lesions.

Dr. Nori advises that prevention begins with HPV vaccination, which significantly lowers the risk of both genital warts and HPV-related cancers. Safer sex practices—including consistent condom use and limiting the number of partners—help reduce exposure. She also recommends regular sexual health checkups, prompt treatment of any suspicious lesions, and avoiding sexual contact when warts are present to minimize the risk of spread.

Dr. Nori clarifies that genital warts are caused by HPV and appear as raised, often painless growths on the skin, while genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and presents with clusters of painful blisters that break into sores before healing. The viruses are unrelated, spread in slightly different ways, and require different treatments—herpes can be suppressed with antiviral medication, whereas genital warts are treated by physically or chemically removing the lesions.