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Genital Warts

Genital Warts Treatment in Nottingham

Serving: Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Mansfield, Sheffield and the wider Midlands area

Understanding, Testing and Treatment of Genital Warts

Can a common viral infection affect your intimate health? Genital warts represent one of the most frequently encountered sexually transmitted infections in the United Kingdom, with British GUM clinics documenting approximately 91,000 new cases annually. Many additional cases develop but remain unreported or untreated.

What Are Genital Warts?

Genital warts are soft growths that appear on the genital area. They’re caused by certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a remarkably common viral infection. While there are over 100 types of HPV, genital warts are typically caused by types 6 and 11, which are considered low-risk strains that don’t lead to cancer.

It’s worth noting that several months may pass between initial infection and wart development, making it particularly challenging to determine the source of infection in many cases.

Recognising the Symptoms

The primary symptom of genital warts is the appearance of flesh-coloured or greyish growths in the genital or anal regions. These warts may be:

  • Single or multiple
  • Small or large
  • Flat or raised
  • Cauliflower-shaped in some cases

In women, warts may develop on:

  • The vulva
  • The walls of the vagina
  • The area between the external genitals and the anus
  • The cervix
  • Inside the anus

In men, genital warts may appear on:

  • The penis
  • The scrotum
  • The groin
  • The thighs
  • Inside or around the anus

What does it feel like to have genital warts? Most people with genital warts don’t experience any discomfort, though some may report:

  • Itching
  • Redness or irritation
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Bleeding with intercourse or after scratching

How Genital Warts Spread

Genital Warts Testing is crucial because these warts spread primarily through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sexual activities with someone who has the HPV infection. It’s important to understand that:

  • You can contract genital warts even if your partner has no visible symptoms
  • Condoms provide some protection, but don’t cover all areas where warts may be present
  • The virus can be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth, though this is rare
  • Sharing towels or bathing together is unlikely to transmit the virus

Diagnosis and Testing

If you suspect you have genital warts, seeking professional medical advice is essential. Genital Warts Testing involves:

  • Visual examination by a healthcare provider
  • Application of mild acidic solution to highlight warts that might not be visible to the naked eye
  • Biopsy in rare cases, especially if:
    • The diagnosis is uncertain
    • Warts don’t respond to standard treatment
    • Warts appear unusual or worsen during treatment

At Park Private Clinic, we provide discreet, confidential Genital Warts Testing in a non-judgmental environment.

Treatment Options

While genital warts may eventually clear on their own as your immune system fights the virus, many people seek treatment due to discomfort, embarrassment, or concern about transmission. Genital Warts Treatment options include:

Topical Treatments

  • Patient-applied treatments such as podophyllotoxin (Warticon) or imiquimod (Aldara)
  • Doctor-applied treatments including podophyllin or trichloroacetic acid

Physical Ablation

  • Cryotherapy (freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen)
  • Electrocautery (burning the warts with an electrical current)
  • Surgical excision for larger warts
  • Laser treatment for extensive or resistant warts

The choice of Genital Warts Treatment depends on:

  • Number and size of warts
  • Location of the warts
  • Patient preference
  • Provider expertise
  • Cost considerations
  • Previous treatment experiences

What can you expect from treatment? While current treatments can remove visible warts, they don’t eliminate the underlying HPV infection. This means:

  • Warts may recur after treatment
  • Multiple treatment sessions might be necessary
  • You can still transmit HPV even after warts are removed

Book Your Confidential Consultation Today

At Park Private Clinic, we offer confidential consultations for genital warts and other sexual health concerns. Our healthcare professionals provide discreet, non-judgemental care and can advise on the most appropriate testing and treatment options for your specific situation.