Genital Warts

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear as small lumps or growths around the genital or anal area and may cause discomfort or distress, though they are often painless.

Treatment can help remove warts, reduce symptoms, and lower the risk of spreading the virus. We offer a range of clinician-approved options, including topical medications suitable for home use.

Through 123Meds, you can receive expert-approved treatment for genital warts via our UK-registered online pharmacy service, with prescriptions reviewed by clinicians and delivered discreetly straight to your door.

Start Your Consultation

UK Prescribers &
pharmacists

100% Discretion on all<br>consultations & orders icon

100% Discretion on all
consultations & orders

Express next day<br>delivery before 3:30PM icon

Express next day
delivery before 3:30PM

Online Prescription<br>Available Now icon

Online Prescription
Available Now

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They affect the genital and anal areas and can be spread through sexual contact, including penetrative sex and skin-to-skin contact—even when no visible warts are present.

The medical term for genital warts is Condylomata acuminata.

While warts may go away on their own, this can take months or even years, and they may recur after clearing.

Around 30% of cases clear within 6 months
About 75% resolve naturally within 2 years

Certain strains of HPV are linked to cervical, anal, and other cancers, which is why the HPV vaccine, given to school-aged children in the UK, plays an important role in prevention. The vaccine helps protect against both cancer-causing strains and genital warts, though it’s still possible to contract warts after vaccination.

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of over 60 related viruses. The types most commonly linked to genital warts are HPV-6 and HPV-11.

The virus is spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, most often during vaginal or anal sex. It can also be transmitted through oral sex or, less commonly, from hand warts or contaminated surfaces.

You can reduce the risk of transmission by using a condom during all sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. However, as HPV can affect areas not covered by a condom, it may not offer complete protection.

In Men

Genital warts can appear on the tip or shaft of the penis, as well as the scrotum or around the anus. Symptoms usually develop within three months of sexual contact with an infected partner.

In Women

Warts may grow on the vulva, vaginal walls, cervix, or around the anal area. They can also appear in the space between the anus and genitals.

Warts often appear as soft, cauliflower-like growths or small, flesh-coloured swellings (pink or brown). You may have one or multiple warts at a time.

Other Symptoms

Pain, irritation, or itching in the affected area
Bleeding, especially if the warts are irritated by clothing or friction

For help identifying symptoms, the NHS website provides images of genital warts that may be useful.

Around 30% of genital warts clear on their own within 6 months. However, treatment can help remove them more quickly and reduce the chance of spreading the virus.

The goal of treatment is to remove visible warts. Common options include:

Condyline solution
Warticon cream
Aldara cream

Condyline and Warticon contain podophyllotoxin, which works by stopping wart cells from multiplying, eventually destroying them. These treatments are typically used for soft warts.

Aldara contains imiquimod, which helps the body’s immune system produce natural substances to fight the HPV virus. It can be used on both soft and hard warts.

These treatments can be prescribed by our UK-registered clinicians through a quick online consultation.

Another option is cryotherapy (freezing), which is usually performed by a nurse or doctor once a week for several weeks.

Please note: Treatment results vary, and it may take several weeks or months for warts to fully clear. In some cases, warts may return or require multiple treatment cycles.

Frequently asked questions

How long do genital warts last?
This varies from person to person. Around 30% of cases clear within 6 months, and up to 75% within 2 years without treatment. However, treatment can help speed up recovery and reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
What do genital warts look like?
They usually appear as soft, cauliflower-like growths of varying sizes. For reference, the NHS website provides images that may help with identification.
What can be mistaken for genital warts?
Genital warts can sometimes be confused with skin tags, sores, or ulcers. The NHS website has helpful guides on similar conditions and other sexual health concerns.
What can be mistaken for genital warts?
Genital warts can sometimes be confused with skin tags, sores, or ulcers. The NHS website has helpful guides on similar conditions and other sexual health concerns.
What happens if genital warts are left untreated?
Warts may eventually go away on their own, but this can take months or even years. In the meantime, they may cause discomfort, itching, or irritation.
How can I treat genital warts?
Treatment can help clear genital warts more quickly, although warts may not respond straight away and sometimes return. Common options include Condyline solution, Warticon cream, and Aldara cream. These work by either destroying wart tissue or stimulating the body’s immune system to fight the virus.
Another option is cryotherapy (freezing), which is carried out by a healthcare professional, usually once a week for up to four weeks. Your clinician will recommend the most suitable treatment based on the size, number, and location of the warts.
Can I buy treatment online?
Yes. At 123Meds, you can request genital warts treatment through our UK-registered online clinician service. Simply complete an online assessment, and if suitable, a prescription will be issued and your treatment delivered discreetly to your door.